Art the vote! Artists finally have a shot at upping voter turnout

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) April 27, 2011 -- Edmonton, AB- With levels of voter turnout for the last two Canadian elections reaching all-time lows, there’s reason for everyone to be concerned. In an effort to counter this trend, artists in particular are being encouraged to increase their level of political participation this election and Edmonton artist and poet Corey Hamilton is proud to be part of this movement.

Artists in particular have a vested interest in actively participating in the civic process. In recent years arts funding across the country has come under heavy fire. With $45 million having been cut from arts across the country in recent years, and another $25 million in endowments for Canadian artists being held back by the federal government – the stakes are high for the arts community this election.

“Artists have a responsibility to make sure their voices are heard, and to become part of the debate this election,” says Hamilton. “The lack of engagement on the part of the Canadian public indicates a lack of understanding of just how important the issues at stake, are. Artists are in the unique position to be able to bring these issues to the forefront in a variety of creative and interesting ways – and we have a responsibility to do so.”

The Canadian Arts Coalition has created the Art Vote 2011 Tool Kit to help artists get involved in the process. And for his part, Hamilton has created an art work illustrating his concern over the high levels of apathy as part of the Propaganda & Political Statements art competition. The piece is on display at the Paint Spot (10032-81 Avenue) and itself is featured as part of a voting exercise designed to get artists and viewers thinking about citizen engagement in the upcoming election.

To learn more about Corey Hamilton visit: www.dramaticsituations.com

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