FOR RELEASE     #05-187
July 13, 2005

WHITEHORSE - Tourism and Culture Minister Elaine Taylor has announced that the Yukon Art Society will receive $25,000, for its Arts Underground initiative, to further its artistic, educational and heritage goals.

In presenting a cheque today, Taylor said she was pleased to provide public funding to the Arts Underground project. Taylor said it integrates cultural vibrancy with downtown development and promotes public participation in arts and heritage activity.

"The Arts Underground project has many important elements," Taylor said. "We are pleased to provide support for special equipment that will be used to foster creativity and talent in our youth. Funds will also be directed at training and professional development for artists. As well residents and visitors will have the opportunity to research our history via a direct link to Yukon Archives collections through this funding support."

Funds will go to acquire art workshop equipment and two computer workstations. One workstation will be for artists to develop marketing materials and the other will be designated for public use by those wishing to access Yukon Archives collections.

"This funding is very much appreciated and allows us to immediately offer art and heritage programs for the benefit of our community. We look forward to presenting an exciting and dynamic array of cultural activities in the downtown core," Yukon Art Society curator Marlene Collins said.

Arts Underground opened its doors to the public June 2, 2005. It is an innovative partnership between the Yukon Art Society, the Yukon Arts Centre, the MacBride Museum, the Friends of Yukon Archives and the Hougen Centre.

Arts Underground is located in the lower level of the Hougen Centre on Main Street.

- 30 -