Nagata Shachu performs and teaches a taiko workshop in Panorama Park, by Tania Fitzpatrick (2017)
Knowing your objectives will help you decide on the artists you want to work with. Do you want to attract a large audience? Do you want to support local artists? Do you want to promote a particular art form? Do you want to encourage new and emerging talent? Or a combination of approaches?
In 2018, Arts in the Parks added a new objective to highlight local artists living in or near selected parks. The position of Community Engagement Coordinator was introduced to work with artists and community organizers to identify local artists who could be opening acts at events. This also helped meet the objectives of spreading the word about Arts in the Parks and increasing interest in the initiative.
“This program helps to convey the message of how the fresh air and healthy environment and arts events in the parks can support them for their good physical and mental health and enjoy a good living.”
- Scarborough Community organizer, 2018