Why Sculpturewalk?
With so many issues facing our community, why should residents and local businesses support Castlegar Sculpturewalk?
It turns out there are many good reasons to do so.
“A growing public display of outdoor sculptures can help revitalize our downtown,” explains local business owner Doug Johnstone.
“I see our future downtown as the vibrant heart of our diverse community where we come together to enjoy a mix of sculptures, unique businesses and cafes, the library, museum, park and green space. Our downtown has such potential, which can complement what uptown offers. Sculpturewalk can help lead our downtown towards its future.”
Apparently it is not just local residents who will be interested in Castlegar Sculpturewalk. According to the World Tourism Organization, cultural and heritage tourism is growing significantly faster than tourism in general.
Other communities in the West Kootenay and over the border into the United States are developing marketing strategies to attract cultural tourists.
Sculpturewalk is putting Castlegar on the map by providing exactly the kind of experience that these tourists are seeking.
And what does Sculpturewalk mean for our local artists? Castlegar is part of an international Sculpturewalk program that enables our local artists to display and sell sculptures locally as well as in a growing number of communities across North America. By supporting our local artists and arts organizations, Sculpturewalk helps support a diverse community and economy.
An important part of a vibrant and diverse community is the ability to attract families with young children to the area. As our industries face an ageing workforce and our schools confront declining enrolments, we will have to compete with other communities for qualified trades people and professionals. Sculpturewalk celebrates and enhances the beauty of our area and makes our community a more attractive place to live.
And for those of us who are already here?
“The first year of Sculpturewalk was a defining moment for Castlegar,” stated city councillor Bernie Krueckl.
“The process of creating Sculpturewalk, including the support from businesses and volunteers, has helped build a stronger sense of community. Once the sculptures were in place, people of all ages could be seen viewing the sculptures and voting for the People’s Choice Award. Sculpturewalk demonstrates all that is good about small town living in Castlegar.”
And the best news of all?
Castlegar Sculpturewalk is preparing to launch its second successful year. To become a sponsor and/or to volunteer, call Pat Field at 250-365-0425.