Have you attended a great Canton concert or enjoyed an incredible art exhibit and wondered who to thank? There are many dedicated people and groups working to make Canton a wonderful place to live and work including the Commission for Culture, Arts & Heritage. The library spoke to the Commission’s chair, Kira Macyda, to find out more about these behind-the-scenes ambassadors and their mission.
History
The Commission was established in 2003 as an advisory group to the Canton Board of Trustees regarding art and culture in the township. Dedicated to enhancing residents’ lives with the arts, supporting partnerships in the township, and promoting awareness of diverse cultures, the Commission aligned with the Canton Leisure Service's master plan to enhance the positive quality of life for the community.
The Commission made it their goal to raise awareness for the arts and demonstrate cultural partnerships and resources by participating in the “Acts of Culture Week” in May.
They have initiated numerous other successful programs that have grown throughout the years including:
- International festivals
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
- Gandhi Jayanti program
- African American History Through Artists' Eyes
- Jazz Concert Series
- Pillars of Art
- Art structure exhibits along the Ford Road corridor
- Annual Canton Fine Arts Exhibition
- Artists in Residence/Distinguished Service to Arts Awards Program
An Evolving Role
Many of the community programs and initiatives are now planned by the Leisure Services Department, but the Commission is still working behind the scenes to ensure the high quality of art and culture events that Canton has enjoyed for many years.
The Commissioners have now taken on an ambassador role to better support the initiatives by attending events and meeting quarterly to report back and assess. The Commission also looks for ways to partner and collaborate with other organizations and groups in Canton and seek ways to promote the passion for arts and culture.
Looking to the Future
It may be cold and dreary right now, but there are lots of things to look forward to in 2024 including some great art and cultural events here in Canton brought to you by Canton Leisure Services. Be sure to mark your calendars for the following programs and check their website for more information.
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration – January 15, 2024
- Art in Bloom – April 27, 2024
- Outdoor Painting and Coffee Class – May 18, 2024
- Yoga in the Village throughout the summer
- LGBTQ+ Gallery Reception – June 6, 2024
- Juneteenth – June 15, 2024
- Concert and Cares – various dates in July and August
- Pride OUTside – July 13, 2024
- Family Science and Art Night – August 16, 2024
- Artoberfest – September 28, 2024
- Fall Into Art – October 4, 11 and 18, 2024
- Plein Air Art Festival – October 12, 2024
- Festival of Lights (Diwali) – October 18, 2024
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