City of Surrey’s Parade of Public Art, Bear Creek Park
Speech
07/11/2009
Speaking Notes For Dona Cadman, M.P. Surrey North
Vancouver, British Columbia
Good Morning,
What a beautiful day to be outside and to be enjoying the magnificent surroundings our city has to offer.
More importantly, what a great day it is to be showcasing the talent of young artists here in our community.
I would like to thank the City of Surrey and the Art Services Department who planned today’s event.
You have done a fantastic job and should be very proud of what you have put together today.
In 2008, the City of Surrey was designated the Cultural Capital of Canada by Heritage Canada because of their understanding and recognition that arts and culture are important to making a community stronger.
From our Canada Day celebration to our renowned Fusion Festival, the City of Surrey truly is the model mosaic of Canada.
Arts and Culture are not only important to making a community stronger, but they are the backbone of what we are as Canadians.
They provide an opportunity for artisans to express themselves and to provide insight and meaning into things the naked eye can’t see.
Whether it is photography, the performing arts or design, the insight an artist brings only broadens our understanding and appreciation of our surroundings.
Today, we will be introduced to three new art works that I believe will showcase to all residents and visitors the talent we have right here in Surrey.
At Bear Creek Park, an exceptional piece will be unveiled that combines many aspects of artistic design including sculpture, architecture, graphic, audio-visual and nature into one piece.
A piece that as Councilor Villeneuve said, will remind us of the similarities and difference that bind us together and distinguish us as individuals and cultures.
To the four artists that designed this great piece; Melanie Cassidy, Michael Filimowicz, Brady Marks and Phillippe Pasquier, I applaud your hard work and creative talent.
I am even more proud to know that you are affiliated with the School of Interactive Arts and Technology at SFU Surrey and that you are inspiring young minds.
On behalf of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and the Government of Canada, I would like to congratulate the City of Surrey’s Public Arts Advisory Committee, the Artist Selection Committee and the Mayor and Council for their tireless work in the promotion of our artistic talent.
And most importantly, to the four artists who are with us today for sharing their creative minds and talent with us and the thousands of visitors we host each year.
Bravo.
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