Numerous arts organizations in Burnaby will be receiving a combined $370,000 to continue to recover from the impacts of COVID-19.
The province is providing $34.5 million to arts and culture organizations across B.C., according to a news release.
For that total, $30 million will be distributed to 337 arts organizations through the BC Arts Council.
The release says the sector is experiencing loss of audiences, increased costs, staff shortages and reduced revenues from sponsorships, memberships, admissions and space rentals.
"Although we have been working hard to recover from the impacts of the pandemic, we know that the arts scene is still recovering," Burnaby-Deer Lake MLA Anne Kang said.
"Burnaby is fortunate to have a vibrant arts and culture community that reflects the diversity of our community, and I am pleased see our government provide important funding for the Burnaby Arts Council and Burnaby Art Gallery."
In Burnaby, the following organizations are receiving a total of $370,713 (in numerical order):
- Nikkei National Museum = $141,323
- Burnaby Art Gallery = $123,146
- SFU Galleries = $79,003
- Burnaby Moving Images Distribution = $14,787
- Burnaby Arts Council = $12,454
"The past three years have brought ongoing challenges to everyone involved in our arts community," Burnaby-Lougheed MLA Katrina Chen added.
"Arts and culture are critical to a vibrant and healthy community. Supports for these organizations will help connect people and bring positive outcomes to our community through arts and culture activities."