One of the major themes running through the discussions that took place at Artspace on November 14th was the idea of a hub – a critical mass for the arts in Calgary. This need for centrality covered many different areas – geography, space, people, communications and resources. It was felt that a geographical or physical hub would allow arts organizations to cooperate and network better, and that new ideas would be formed by cross-fertilization. This area would draw people in from around the city, allowing artists to connect to the public and vice-versa. Many also suggested that a central gathering place for the arts would facilitate arts tourism – visitors would know where to go for cultural activities.

Participants also emphasized that this central hub cannot be the only location for art in Calgary. Art needs to be brought out to the suburbs and all parts of the city, forming a cohesive community where art is valued. Part of this integration would be more art in public spaces - accessible, interactive, participatory and outdoor projects, some of which should be child and family friendly. There should be more organizations like the 4th Street Public Art Society.

One way to find more diverse cultural places for art would be to reclaim spaces that already exist in Calgary. Participants suggested new, risky and different venues should be considered – abandoned buildings, shopping centres and parking lots and parks were some ideas. It was noted that some spaces like these are used temporarily for festivals, but should be in use year-round. Many locations could be used as mixed-use spaces - bike paths and schools for example. Corporate partnerships in order to share space were also suggested.

Low cost live/work space is one need that participants identified as urgent. Other required spaces include: affordable studios that are open to the public, perhaps subsidized by a market in the same building; rehearsal space to rent; cooperatives such as the Printmakers Society; a world-class stone sculpture park and a Farmer’s Market for artists.

Central communications was also an idea that many people mentioned – a “clearinghouse connector”. Artists need to have access to information, especially about what spaces might be available around the city. Arts groups also need more publicity – a central resource to find all activities happening in the city would be a great resource for local media. The arts need a public face and a central directory could fill this role.

Other ideas for better publicity were: a local art magazine; newspaper-sponsored ads for cultural events; a city-wide “Day of Art”, 2 for 1 ticket deals to expand audiences and more regular awareness raising programs like the Stirring Culture lecture series.

Another major theme throughout the discussions was partnerships. Participants suggested a Triangle Partnership Diagram: the City, Corporations and the Arts. A need was identified for someone to facilitate cooperation and communication between these groups, as well as opportunities for them to meet – First Thursdays for example. Participants suggested that business mentorship would be a good way to help artists and groups develop entrepreneurial skills, and also help businesses develop creative thinking. Partnerships would be an inexpensive way to encourage innovation for all everyone involved, and would also help arts groups to become more sustainable.Partnerships with education systems were also suggested as a way to develop future audiences. This could be done in schools or with in-house tours and facilities.

A need for cultural leaders and advocates visible in the community was also identified. This would strengthen the identity of the arts with all levels of government. Comparing our city to others could be one way to motivate city council. There are questions that need to be considered – What is Calgary known for? What do we want to be known for?