The Ontario Arts Council presents: Access and Career Development program

OAC encourages and supports diverse artistic practices

Toronto, April 9, 2008 - The Ontario Arts Council (OAC) has over 50 programs available to support the arts by people of diverse cultural backgrounds. As part of its response to continuing systemic barriers for arts professionals of colour and Aboriginal arts professionals, OAC created the Access and Career Development program. The next deadline is May 1, 2008. The program funds professional development and skill-building opportunities that advance the applicants' artistic work and careers. "The program is an important access point for artists and arts administrators experimenting with the many different approaches to professional development and training," said Sara Roque, Acting Aboriginal Arts Officer and Officer responsible for Northern Arts, Access, and Career Development Programs. "The beauty of the program is it allows artists to create their own self determined path to further their artistic and administrative development and/or creation at any stage of their careers - emerging, mid, or senior level." Click here for program guidelines and application forms, or contact the individuals listed below.

Program inquiries - English: Sara Roque, Acting Aboriginal Arts Officer and Officer responsible for Northern Arts, Access, and Career Development Programs 416-969-7454 / 1-800-387-0058, ext. 7454 [email protected] Program inquiries - French: Ashleigh Hodgins, Program Assistant 416-969-7424 / 1-800-387-0058, ext. 7424 [email protected] Media inquiries: Hamal Docter, Communications Coordinator 416-969-7434 / 1-800-387-0058, ext. 7434 [email protected]

The Ontario Arts Council (OAC) is the province of Ontario's primary funding body for professional arts activity. Since 1963, OAC has played a vital role in promoting and assisting the development of the arts and artists for the enjoyment and benefit of Ontarians.