The Town of Bracebridge, along with partners Muskoka Arts & Crafts and Muskoka Small Business Centre are pleased to announce the Call For Entry for the third season of Art in Heart. This "arts incubator" initiative was originally launched in 2008 and is designed to assist new artists by providing them with an opportunity to showcase their work while at the same time creating a new attraction in the core of Bracebridge.

Art in the Heart is proposed to take place in the alleyways and public spaces along Manitoba Street on Saturdays and Sundays during July. The program for 2011 will build on the success of the previous two seasons.

Again this year, Art in the Heart organizers will provide an opportunity for artists to ask questions about the program prior to applying. According to Cheryl Kelley, the Town’s Director of Economic Development, "We’ve found that a face-to-face get together is the best way to alleviate anxiety over what will be the first public showing for many of these artists. Our plans are to host Open Houses in Bracebridge, Gravenhurst and Huntsville so that we can meet with as many individuals as possible."

One of the most unique components to the Art in the Heart program continues to be the business support that the artists receive through the Muskoka Small Business Centre. In addition to the basic training offered to first time participants, two additional modules have been developed to accommodate returning artists. Deena Brock, Managing Consultant for the Muskoka Small Business Centre said, "We are able to provide these new and emerging artists with coaching and guidance in submitting their applications. 

Once approved, artists will be exposed to a customized workshop to ‘ready’ them for presenting themselves and their art to the public. The response to these training sessions has been very positive." Elene Freer, Curator/Coordinator for Muskoka Arts and Crafts indicated that, "Art in the Heart is an exceptional and innovative program that nurtures and encourages new and emerging artists to take the next step in their development." Freer went on to add. "These artists represent the future of our artistic community in Muskoka and Art in the Heart provides them with the essential skills to realize their potential."

The call for entry is available through any of the partners or their websites. Deadline for applications is April 30, 2011. More information on the program can be found at www.artintheheartbracebridge.com.

Art in the Heart Open Houses take place throughout Muskoka. Dates and locations to be announced. 

For further information contact:

Cheryl Kelley, Director of Economic Development
705-645-5264
www.bracebridge.ca

Elene Freer, Curator, Muskoka Arts & Crafts Inc.
705-645-5501
www.muskokaartsandcrafts.com

Dave, Managing Consultant, Muskoka Small Business Centre
705-646-9021
www.muskokasmallbusiness.ca