Presidents' Message
Welcome to the 2011 Cultural Awards.
Local Government is a major funding source for the arts in NSW. In 2008/09 Local Government contributed $29 million for art museums, $37 million for performing arts, and $67 million for 'cultural or arts services'. In the same year the NSW Government spent $34 million on art museums and $72 million on performing arts and their venues.
The desire to make art is fundamental to being human, and we may never completely understand the reasons for, and purpose of, creativity. Indeed, the motivation may be outside the rational and instrumental.
Of the three spheres of Government, we believe Local Government is the most practical. So when councils work with artists, it is often to assist communities with real challenges in civic engagement, planning, amenity, welfare, the environment and others.
Take some time to browse the hundreds of projects uploaded by councils since 2008 to the Cultural Awards websites. You will be astounded by the range and diversity of activities undertaken by Local Government across New South Wales.
Encourage your council to participate in the Cultural Awards websites, and to contribute to this extraordinary showcase of artists, communities and councils working together.
Cr Keith Rhoades AFSM
President, Local Government Association of NSW
Cr Bruce Miller
President, Shires Association of NSW
