A community’s heritage is more than just its history; it is the foundation of its identity, shaping its values, traditions, and sense of belonging. The Heritage & Arts stream helps municipalities preserve, celebrate, and integrate cultural heritage into their planning and development. Many communities in Newfoundland and Labrador are home to historic sites, traditional buildings, and cultural artifacts that tell the story of their past. Without proper care and attention, these treasures risk being lost to time. This stream supports municipalities in implementing heritage conservation initiatives, developing policies to protect historical landmarks, and fostering programs that encourage the intergenerational transmission of local knowledge, traditions, and storytelling.
Beyond preservation, the arts play a crucial role in enriching community life, driving economic growth, and fostering social cohesion. This stream encourages municipalities to support artists, musicians, craftspeople, and other creative professionals by investing in public art projects, artist-in-residence programs, and cultural festivals. Local art not only beautifies public spaces but also helps define a town’s character, making it a more vibrant and engaging place to live and visit. By integrating heritage and arts into community planning, municipalities can create spaces that inspire creativity, attract tourism, and instill pride in residents.
Heritage and arts are also essential to economic sustainability. Cultural tourism is a growing industry, and towns that invest in their artistic and historical assets can draw visitors, generate local business, and create employment opportunities. From heritage walking tours to live performances in historic venues, communities can find innovative ways to celebrate their cultural heritage while generating revenue. By embracing the past and present creative expressions, towns can position themselves as cultural destinations, ensuring that their unique stories continue to be shared for generations to come.
