Candidate: Laura Lucier

Municipality: Kingsville

Position: Councillor

What opportunities do you believe Windsor-Essex has to grow our art, culture and heritage sector?

Windsor-Essex has a rich local history and a flourishing arts community.

We have the opportunity to support local artists and performers so they can increase their presence through festivals, events and projects that showcase their talent and celebrate our community.

How do you propose to attract or retain artists and cultural workers in your community?

We can attract and retain artists and cultural workers by fostering a community that supports the arts through communication, promotion, advocacy, grants and financial support.

What role do you see for arts and culture in the promotion of the region both as a destination for tourists and as a place of permanent residence for youth, families, and retirees?

Arts and culture are an essential part of individual and community well-being, and can boost local economies by attracting visitors, creating jobs. attracting businesses, and revitalizing communities.

In what other ways could you use your position as an elected official to help support the arts, culture and heritage sector outside of using municipal funding?

I personally support the arts and culture in our community and will continue to support these activities, raising the awareness, accessibility, participation and engagement of residents in arts and cultural activities.

What is your perspective on the best ways to collaborate with other levels of government to ensure sustainability and growth for the cultural sector of our community?

Communication is the key to collaboration.  We need to increase awareness of the many arts and cultural activities in Windsor Essex at other levels of government and ensure that our local artists, performers, organizations and volunteers are aware of the support available at the provincial and federal level, providing assistance that allows them to access grants and funding opportunities.

How do you personally engage with arts, culture and heritage in Windsor-Essex?

I attend concerts, plays and art shows.  I visit museums and galleries.  I participate in Culture Days activities. I volunteer at our local Folk Festival, and am a member of a local heritage festival committee.  I also promote local arts and culture events on social media.