Three Appointed to Creative Nova Scotia Leadership Council

Three new members of the Creative Nova Scotia Leadership Council will help grow Nova Scotia's creative economy with their knowledge and experience.

Communities, Culture and Heritage Minister Leonard Preyra announced the appointment of Gerald Gloade, Mary Jane Lamond and Jamie MacLellan, today, Sept. 14.

"The arts and culture industry in Nova Scotia enhances our quality of life and brings important social and economic benefits to our communities," said Mr. Preyra. "This council provides a foundation for growth for the province's creative economy. It will clearly benefit from the addition of these new members who bring with them a wide range of experience and enthusiasm."

The new members reflect the artistic and cultural diversity of the province:

• Gerald Gloade, Millbrook, is a Mi'kmaw artist, carver, storyteller and cultural educator. Mr. Gloade is a program development officer with the Department of Education, member of the Tripartite Forum and program development officer with the Mi'kmawey Debert Cultural Centre.

• Jamie MacLellan, Halifax, is a visual artist and public art facilitator with Halifax Regional Municipality. Mr. MacLellan is a former board member of the Khyber Arts Society.

• Mary Jane Lamond, Glendale, Inverness Co., is a singer, interpreter of Gaelic songs and musician. Ms. Lamond is former co-chair of the Gaelic Council of Nova Scotia, active in the Gaelic community and received the 2010 Portia White Prize.

They join current members Ronald Bourgeois, Paula Davis, Chris Ball, Terrilee Bulger, Fiona Diamond, George Klass, Maria Osende, Charlie Rhindress, Scott Simpson, Susan Tooke, and department staff representatives Marcel McKeough and Peggy Tibbo-Cameron.

Outgoing members are Linda Ross, Devon Strang and Jim Morrow.

"Although we say farewell to three valued colleagues who made their mark in the sector and on this council, it is with great pleasure that we welcome these talented and experienced individuals to our team," said Mr. Bourgeois, council chair. "Together with our returning members, they will play an important role in representing the interests of our arts and culture sector here in Nova Scotia."

In consultation with the arts and culture sector, the Creative Nova Scotia Leadership Council provides advice and recommendations to guide the department about strategy, policy and ongoing investment in Nova Scotia's artists, cultural industries and cultural activities.

Council members represent a cross-section of Nova Scotians with geographic and cultural diversity, and a broad range of experience in the arts and culture sector.