ArtSpring, Salt Spring Arts and the Salt Spring Island Library work independently and collaboratively to enhance our community through arts and culture. Together these organizations developed five questions for candidates standing for election for the new CRD Local Community Commission (LCC). The intention is to provide eligible voters with an opportunity to learn more about each of the candidates standing for election this month.

The LCC will oversee Salt Spring Island-wide services such as parks and recreation, transportation, economic development, and liquid waste disposal. The LCC will also administer certain local services currently overseen by staff and the Electoral Area Director; these include the provision of arts and library contribution services funded by the CRD.

Together, the SSI Library, Salt Spring Arts and ArtSpring would like to thank members of our community that have put their names forward as LCC candidates and that are fully engaging in strengthening our local democratic process with thoughtfulness, respect and dialogue.

All candidates were emailed this questionnaire on May 10, and the deadline for responses was May 15. Ten candidate responses were received by the deadline and their responses have been duplicated here without edits.

The following candidates (and responses) are listed in the order in which their responses were received:

David Courtney, Brian Webster, Ben Corno, Kylie Coates, Gayle Baker, Nejmah Guermoudi, Jenny McClean, Jennifer Lannan, Earl Rook and Eric March

The questions:

1. What art and cultural activities do you (and your family) participate in?

2. How do you see arts and culture contributing to the Salt Spring community and economy?

3. What do you feel is the role of the LCC in supporting local artists and arts organizations? If elected, how will you advocate for a vibrant Salt Spring Island arts community?

4. What do you feel is the role of arts and culture in supporting diversity in our community and honouring our commitment to reconciliation?

5. How will the LCC, with increasing demands, ensure that arts and culture programs and infrastructure are fully supported for future and ongoing needs?

1. What art and cultural activities do you (and your family) participate in?

David Courtney: I personally frequent the Library for research material. The creation of the New Library is one of the best things our Community has ever done. Hats' off to Garth Hendren and his Team for that accomplishment.

Brian Webster: We have been frequent attendees at musical performances, including at ArtSpring, Fulford Hall and in Centennial Park. We have also enjoyed artists’ shows at Mahon Hall, ArtSpring and other venues. Over the years, we have also greatly enjoyed the performances of emerging young artists at GISS music, dance and theatre productions.

Ben Corno: Kaleigh and I love to take in Live Music and have also had the pleasure to see two of the GISS plays in recent years. I’ve volunteered as a projectionist with the Salt Spring Island Film Festival in its last two in-person years and that has been a real pleasure; I see myself continuing with that for as long as I can. We also love to take in poetry evenings at the Library and saw a great one hosted by a writing group at Switchboard last Summer. I don’t know if it tests as culture, but we are also really big into Karaoke!

Kylie Coates: Unfortunately, here on Salt Spring, not a lot we do support a small art exhibit every month at the laundry mat usually of local talent

Gayle Baker: My participation in the rich array of cultural activities, especially plays and music, changed radically during COVID from a relatively active attendee - and even, some years ago, an Artspring usher - to years of isolation. I am so looking forward to re-igniting that former level of participation.

With no painting skills and musical competence (flute) that has been dormant since high school, I am clearly not an artist - possibly the reason I have such respect for those who can create.

But, while I consider my skill a craft, rather than an art, I am a writer of short, popular histories of the towns that I love. I have written, produced, and published 10 HarbourTown Histories, the most recent of which still sells quite well: Victoria, A HarbourTown History.

Nejmah Guermoudi: I currently operate The Creator Space, a low-barrier art studio for all, at the SIMS building. I attend local arts events frequently, from music to art shows. While I have been a busy mum and community worker, I always find time to get crafty with my children and friends.

Jenny McClean: To describe in what ways I have been involved in the arts here, I will explain as follows. I volunteered with Johanna Hoskins when she was working on art projects in the Salt Spring Elementary School. My children attended her summer art camps every year. My children also attended the gymnastics that was taught at the Fulford Hall by Kip Nash and others. My children have been in plays that are a part of their school curriculum and are presented at Arts Spring. Personally, I was very involved with visual arts when I was younger. Caroline Hamilton was my art teacher and I loved her. I went to Emily Carr College of Art and Design and I was very interested in the structure of support for self employed artists that I grew up with here on Salt Spring Island. Many people create here and are also self employed business people who market and sell their creative products. It is very inspiring and shows role models to younger people who wish to live as artists. Life itself is a creative, process oriented experience. Caroline Hamilton set us up to design our own goals for art pieces we wanted to make and I learned how to set goals by making art. I worked for Community Arts Council (CAC) when I was a teenager.  I was in local plays as a younger person including 'Fiddler on the Roof' and "Midsummer Night's Dream". Many kids grew up being in local plays. My family and I enjoy many local performances of ballet, music, theatre and Tsunami Circus. I attended the Mother's Day Socker that was a collaboration with Zipp Toto and others and Art Jam. I am just learning more about Art Jam and have friends who are selling their art in the local laundromat.

Jennifer Lannan: I follow SSNAP closely and I try to see art shows around town. I read all the arts articles about what's happening on the island. I have a sister that is an art teacher, so I try to haul the kids to her shows. However, yes—it is difficult to partake as much as I’d like to at this children-juggling phase of life but I do try to get my kids out to make sure they have a cultural experience. I should really be getting out more alone and enjoying some openings and supporting the arts.

Earl Rook: We primarily participate in the performing arts – Bach on the Rock, Bandemonium concert band, Salt Spring Singers, Swing Shift Big Band, and various folk/pop/rock ensembles, along with the portrait painting group. Cultural pursuits include book clubs, the Salt Spring Forum, the Salt Spring Film Festival, and the library. We regularly attend musical and theatrical performances.

Eric March: I occasionally enjoy live music and I support one of Salt Spring Island’s local authors.

2. How do you see arts and culture contributing to the Salt Spring community and economy?

David Courtney: In a positive fashion.

Brian Webster: I believe arts and culture are central to our community. Every community is enriched by its arts and culture; Salt Spring is enriched more than most due to the high proportion of outstanding artists on the island and the amazing synergies between arts and our inspiring natural environment. The economic benefits of arts and culture may be taken for granted by some Salt Springers, but not by me. A simple demonstration of this is easy to observe by spending some time at the Saturday Market , witnessing the many artisans and their art interacting with visitors and locals alike.

Ben Corno: Wow! When I moved here in 2010 I understood that I was moving to an innately artistic place. I consider the artistic sensibility and history of Salt Spring to be a part of the impression people have of this place. Through the Saturday Market, Artcraft, the studio tour, and our strong online art presence, I see Salt Spring as a realistic and healthy place to have an art-based business. People want to go home with art from Salt Spring. The 2022 mural project also showed that Salt Spring businesses and locals can show interest in and support local artists in ways that go beyond just purchasing take-home art.

Kylie Coates: Salt Spring is known as an artist and a cultural place. Unfortunately I don't think Ganges fully represents this outlook.

Gayle Baker:  Salt Spring’s world-wide reputation as an artistic community, solidified during the 1960s, has attracted an amazing array of talented artists to Salt Spring. They have fueled the vibrant tourist economy that has become one of Salt Spring’s most lucrative economic drivers, second only, I believe , to retirement income.

While some may rue what they typify as an invasion of visitors during the summer, without them, our artists and craftspersons - as well as local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations-providers - would struggle.

While the artistic and cultural opportunities offered to locals and visitors during our summer months are plentiful, attracting visitors during our shoulder and winter seasons is a goal that continues to be a challenge. While the completion of a year-round Farmers’ Market in the Ganges Firehall could take us far toward building that year round economy, work still needs to be done. I hope that the opportunity for even stronger partnerships with local government and nonprofits will make this plan for year round vibrancy a reality.

Nejmah Guermoudi: I see the arts as an intrinsic part of our Salt Spring community. When I first came to Salt Spring, I was amazed at all of the beautiful crafts at the Saturday market and was inspired to hone my sewing craft to be able to participate in the market too. Salt Spring is a place where artists come to live and make a reasonable living. From learning how to make beautiful handmade paper to exploring the fine art galleries and catching live music at the park on a summer night, the Salt Spring arts community is thriving and instrumental in bringing community together and developing a strong economic foundation of which many artists depend upon.

Jenny McClean: In terms of how arts contribute to the local culture and economy, as follows. I believe that we  have the chance to promote more outdoor Dell Arte style theatre in the parks as well as other styles of theatre such continuing with the Shakespeare that is being performed in the summer in the park here on Salt Spring Island. I would like to see a soap box in town and perhaps a suggestion box. The soap box could be for people to sing and express themselves. They could get up and express and we could have a regular outdoor town hall in the parks with a chance to jump in and show some talent or to express ideas. Tourists could jump in as well. Some may have magic tricks, or musical talent or could read poems, such as a poetry slam. People could read out loud original works or writings that inspire them. I would like to see theatre games and theatre sports style entertainment here on Salt Spring Island. I would like to see more outdoor festivals. Things similar to Public Dreams could be set up. I enjoyed the 'Kids are Alright' that was set up a few years ago and had an affordable housing message mixed in with performances and outdoor food vendors. I also enjoy the piano program that takes place every summer. I love to see everyone enjoying playing music outside in Ganges.

Jennifer Lannan: There’s no doubt in my mind that arts and culture is a big contributor to the Salt Spring community and economy. I do think arts and culture is the basis for notoriety of the island; living an artful life and creating beautiful, independent small shops are all part of that expression- especially as of late. The arts are a stronghold here- Did you make it? Is this made here? are common questions. The made on Salt Spring branding has not died…let’s hope it never does.

Earl Rook: Two of Salt Spring’s greatest assets are its natural beauty and its vibrant culture. The arts, broadly understood, are a big factor in what makes our culture appealing, to visitors and residents alike. As such, they are a cornerstone of a sustainable, diversified, year round economy for the island. The arts and culture will need to be a part of any LCC economic development efforts going forward.

Eric March: Arts and culture are an important contribution to any community. Our community of local artists bring in visitors to hear our music and see our visual arts.

3. What do you feel is the role of the LCC in supporting local artists and arts organizations? If elected, how will you advocate for a vibrant Salt Spring Island arts community?

David Courtney: It would be my duty to observe Bylaw 4507 & 4508 on how it applies to your situation. As for Advocating, I’ve demonstrated along with the "Patrons of Route 6” of our abilities. Let discuss your needs if elected.

Brian Webster: The LCC has a significant role to play in supporting local artists and arts organizations. The most obvious and tangible way is through the LCC’s review and approval of contributory service budgets for ArtSpring and the Library, both of which receive significant taxpayer support. Additionally, the LCC is responsible for the SIMS community centre facility, which makes available space for arts, culture and other community organizations. I believe the LCC has further opportunities to support our arts community through its mandate for economic development/ sustainability, reflecting the value of arts and culture to our economy and to the quality of life of Salt Spring residents.

Ben Corno: I think having an ear always open to the Arts Council would be a great start. The SSIAC is a proven host and advocates for artists and art lovers on Salt Spring, so I would take their ideas seriously. As it pertains to the economic sustainability of our community, I also think that consideration for how our economic endeavours can be improved by understanding the artistic potential that our projects have and looking for ways to add those pieces whenever they fit.

As far as I understand, the LCC has a role in recommending a budget line for the arts, as well as the capacity to consider contributing to arts sustainability via grants-in-aid.

Kylie Coates: The LCC will be in charge of Parks and Recreation is my intention to put sculptures and artwork on full display in the heart of Ganges also having musical and cultural events in the parks

Gayle Baker:  The LCC will have responsibility for Grants-in-Aid, a good way for art organizations to support new programs. Limited by choice, rather than policy, to $5,000 per year per nonprofit, it is possible that, given a compelling larger need, Local Commissioners could decide to offer even more substantial support to art organizations eager to initiate programs.

While extremely valuable, these Grants-in-Aid only support the development of new programs, and, we all know, good programs need on-going support to continue. Local Commissioners will have some hard and very important decisions to make concerning the already-existing, on-going, economic development funding. While there will be many demands for this money, it is my hope that those elected to the LCC with have a clear understanding of the key role our arts and culture contribute to the vibrancy of our community and will seriously consider increased on-going funding proposals for Contribution Agreements.

Nejmah Guermoudi: While the LCC will only have an advisory role officially in the administration of our community’s arts budget, I believe that the LCC can still play a part in

ensuring there is equitable access to project grants for grass roots initiatives, as well as more transparency in expenditures to ensure that the funds are being utilized in a way that feels good for all demogprahics on island.

If elected for the LCC, I would hope to encourage even further collaboration among island arts organizations to potentially form as island-wide MakerSpace tour that would include the Studio Tour folks, SS Arts and others. Creating more opportunities to residents and visitors alike to experience getting into home studios, not only as a spectator/appreciator, but also for the opportunity to learn a new skill and craft something themselves.

I would love to support more interactive and inclusive offerings that would continue to encourage multi-organization collaboration and a deeper understand and appreciation for the complex and diverse range of skills and people we have living among us.

Jenny McClean: To speak to the role of the LCC in working with the arts, as follows. I would like to see the LCC and the arts community working together to bring about projects using local artisans and artists. The economic development commission that is now being folded into the LCC was very involved in promoting the arts. There is a direct connection between the arts and the local economy. Tour des Iles was an example of a creative project that was started by Ron Pither and was taken on by the Chamber of Commerce. The potential to have creative tours to highlight local food with connections to all of the islands can be realized or prioritized. When I went to Galiano in the past, there was a crazy school bus with a singing driver that was being used for a shuttle. Those kinds of experiences mean a lot to people and support tourism.

Jennifer Lannan: The CRD budget includes funding for Artspring and the Salt Spring Island Public Library, so keeping a healthy operating budget for both those facilities is vital. I mention the library here because there are some art shows there and it is a supportive space for readings, discussions and clubs/groups.

I do wonder if the LCC can find economic sustainability funding for tourism marketing opportunities—a beautiful campaign that hones in on the iconic parts of Salt Spring Island culture. Where did I read about the need of an island culture  co-ordinator? That would be fabulous, and it is very needed.

I have some great marketing campaign ideas that I believe could assist the island and I hope to have the opportunity to consult with the Chamber of Commerce about these ideas. I would love to see the powers that be put their heads together for some solid marketing with strong returns, visits (physical and digital) and positive feedback.

Earl Rook: The role of local government, in my view, is to promote an environment in which the arts and individual artists can thrive. The Community Economic Sustainability Commission recognized a several challenges for our arts community. Our artists are aging out. The cost of living and shortage of affordable studio space is making it difficult for us to attract younger and mid-career artists. We are a cultural community without a coordinated, cohesive plan to support and sustain the arts. Efforts to build a more cohesive and sustainable arts community need to come from that community but the LCC can do its part by understanding the needs of the arts as a key part of our economy, and identifying areas where it can provide support. Development of an Arts District or Culture Hub are good examples of initiatives where the LCC could play a constructive role.

Eric March: We must ensure that the arts are available to our working class, and that working class art has a place in our community. What limited powers over the arts and library the LCC has must be used to support struggling artists from vulnerable and/or marginalized sectors of our community.

4. What do you feel is the role of arts and culture in supporting diversity in our community and honouring our commitment to reconciliation?

David Courtney: It’s a positive and very respectful.

Brian Webster: Arts and culture play pivotal roles in supporting diversity and reconciliation. The arts provide opportunities and a universal language for connections and communication among diverse members of our community and beyond. By its very nature, the arts break down barriers and challenge the status quo. Arts and culture open doors for the larger community to develop greater understanding of indigenous peoples and societies in a venue characterized by equality and mutual respect.

Ben Corno: The impact that the artistic expressions of diverse communities have on our population's recognition and understanding of those diverse communities is powerful. Through art, one can meet the artist at any time of day and learn from them. Art is educational and flexible, and it is emotional. Through the highlighting of diverse perspectives, we can see our home through the eyes of different people who we may not get the chance to meet and know in person.

I dream of a day when our community is doing the job it should be doing amplifying the perspective and history of our historical indigenous co-habitants; their stewardship of our home, and the inspiration they drew and reflect back through their art is a wonderful gift that we can recognize better and communicate through our spaces.

Kylie Coates: The role of art and cultural events are significant. You can bring communities together.

Gayle Baker:  While there are many good answers to this question, high on my priority list is addressing the virtual lack of recognition of Ganges’ rich history. While the murals are a great addition, especially with its welcome of indigenous artists, we can do more.

As a historian, I am saddened by the very limited reminders of our shared history as one meanders Ganges. With limited nods to settler history, like plaques outside T.J. Beans and Embe, it would be very possible for a visitor to leave Ganges with no clue about our rich indigenous history.

What do I hope the LCC considers?

Signs are easy and relatively inexpensive, and we already have the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure’s support, in principle, for artist-created signs welcoming all to Ganges using First Nations names and art.

The gorse-filled, unused park at the intersection of Upper and Lower Ganges - an important indigenous site - is a huge lost opportunity. If I am elected, as soon as the in-progress HarbourWalk design and engagement study has been completed, I would like to see this centrally-located park finally used to its full potential. There will be many choices for its use: I am hopeful that, among the many good suggestions, there will be consideration of a park that features our indigenous history through art as well as the return of the flora they used, like reeds and camus bulbs, a key source of carbohydrates. Will this happen? So many conversations are first needed, but it is a dream for a currently-unused area that could take us an important step toward supporting diversity in our community and honouring our commitment to reconciliation.

Nejmah Guermoudi: I believe that culture is born through art, and with that comes a great responsibility on the part of these organizations to uphold a deep appreciation and understanding for the complexity of what art is in time and space. Arts organizations must be cautious to not become too insulated, forgetting to peer deeply through a climate/social/reconciliation lens before curating the types of art and music that are supported to hold art shows and concerts.

Beyond that, I believe that our local arts organizations have been doing an incredible job at ensuring that we have access to Indigenous culture, art and knowledge, and for that I am truly grateful. There is so much to learn from our Indigenous communities’ stories, songs and art. Thank you for consistently amplifying Indigenous artists and bringing those opportunities for their teachings to reach Islanders and visitors alike.

Jenny McClean: In terms of the arts and reconciliation. We have a natural history here with First Nations history in settlement patterns near fresh water. We need a project to uncover the lost streams of Ganges. I would like to see vanished streams uncovered and the ph of Ganges Creek brought to healthy to support salmon fry. I love the work that is going on with volunteers in the schools who are planting natural vegetation and trees on school lands. I have children in School District 64 who participate in the programs to gain knowledge on this. I would love to see the information of the sacred sites recognized. I would like to see a return to a healthy ecosystem in Ganges which was a very healthy food producing area within the past 75 years. We are not too far away from a time when memories were very fresh about the connection to the original settlers. I would like to see some honouring areas in Centennial Park. I would like to see a Story Walk to cover the past history here and what is currently going on. I would support that with the LCC.

Jennifer Lannan: This is a really important question. I don’t think there could ever be enough support for diversity or commitments to reconciliation. Not in these times, anyhow. The work will have to go on and on. However, I think societies everywhere are diversifying, including Salt Spring. I hope society changes with grace and celebrates diversity beautifully. I would love to see more projects for diversity and reconciliation. I would commit to being an advocate for that, and confirm the need for such projects in our community.

Earl Rook: The arts and culture can be a common ground for connecting with diverse communities and cultures. The Salt Spring Library has done impressive work in integrating indigenous knowledge and arts into its conscious reconciliation efforts. It could serve as a model for other organizations.

Eric March: It is easy for bourgeois art to uplift the voices of the dominant culture, however art also has the power to give the workers and the colonised a voice. Art is essential to amplifying the experiences of our marginalized and vulnerable members, and a great way for all of us to learn about the lives of others.

5. How will the LCC, with increasing demands, ensure that arts and culture programs and infrastructure are fully supported for future and ongoing needs?

David Courtney: That’s a good question and I think best left unanswered until we get the LCC up and running, demonstrating the effectiveness as well as cost. So far with a Community approaching 12,000 in Population, this is an unproven concept for a Community our size. Of the 5 other LCC’s in BC, the largest is 500 people.

The one think I see very promising is the Advocating of the 4 Commissioners on variety of fronts being quite effective.

Brian Webster: There is no question that community needs across all sectors are growing and often exceed available local government resources. To some extent, arts and culture funding is protected through the established services (ArtSpring and Library) that already exist. Beyond that, the LCC must weigh multiple priorities and work to ensure we generate the greatest possible benefits to our community from the limited tax dollars available. In this context, the foundation for good decision-making is knowledge and understanding. Our arts and cultural community can help make sure the LCC has this foundation by sharing information on its programs, initiatives and benefits. This could include sharing documents, making presentations at LCC meetings and otherwise engaging with the new LCC to ensure the value and importance of arts and culture is top of mind for all commissioners.

Thank you for raising these questions, as they are a first step toward achieving just that.

Ben Corno: By having an open ear to the artisans, and their related organizations, and believing that a thriving and active arts community goes hand-in-hand with a healthy community at large. I am planning to be available and to advocate for the needs of all of our community, and I look forward to helping keep our arts community growing in whatever way I can.

Kylie Coates: Again, hopefully in the LCC  we will be able to bring more art into Salt Spring's parks and recreational areas. Also holding more art exhibit at the library and at art spring.

I would also like to paint all telephone poles as they've done in Victoria recently and try and make Ganges look something a little more brighter than a North Korean village

Gayle Baker:  With a laser focus on supporting our local nonprofits that are essential in the vitality and economic viability of our community, it will be the task of those you elect as Local Commissioners to plan for the future through wise allocations. This will include nurturing our artistic and cultural community. Will it be easy? Definitely not, especially with the other pressing needs facing Local Commissioners. Is it possible? I believe that Local Commissioners who understand the key role arts and culture have in sustaining the vitality of our community will work hard to ensure that arts and culture programs (and infrastructure) are well-supported for future and ongoing needs.

Nejmah Guermoudi: I will always be a champion for arts and culture, and believe that even through all of our differences and complexities, one thing will always unify most of us, and that is the arts! We all have a deep appreciation for the gift of making and appreciating art of all sorts, without which, our island would not be such a sought after place to visit and live. I promise to always stand up in support of the arts within the LCC and even in challenging times, will find a way to weave it back into the bureaucratic budgetary fabric in a way that will be accepted by any in opposition. I trust that any candidate will understand the importance of nurturing the deep relationship between our beautiful island community and the arts that weave through all of our lives in so many ways.

Jenny McClean: If elected, I will make sure that the LCC will work with arts representatives to come forward and contribute their voices to LCC meetings. I realize that CRD facilities are being used for the arts at this time. I would like to see that continue. I would like to see any barriers removed to allow groups to use the parks for creative theatre and art and music and gatherings.

Jennifer Lannan: I hope that arts and culture is always respected as something vital for health and wellness in all communities. I suspect that we have some wild times ahead pertaining to all ways that people express themselves artistically. Look what our collective being has just been though! I hope that fighting for the arts isn’t forever on the horizon, but I hope the fire never dies if there’s a fight to be had. I hope that LCC commissioners will consider including arts and culture projects into project budgets and think of how artists/creators might be included in sustainable project plans. We need to ensure  inclusivity and collaborate with arts and culture.

Earl Rook: The CRD currently provides only limited support to the arts and culture on Salt Spring, focusing on our larger institutions – our public library, ArtSpring, and the local arts council. The acquisition of the SIMS facility by the CRD provides an opportunity for much needed additional space for arts and cultural groups. As a commissioner I would work to ensure that the pricing model for the SIMS space provides the most affordable rates possible to community groups using the facility.

Eric March: The LCC has been given a difficult task, bringing so many services under one umbrella and having so many needs of immediate importance. The arts are vital to our community, but so are so many other needs. The LCC will have a delicate balancing act to ensure our community, and its arts, thrive.