When something is worth doing it is worth doing quickly.

At least that is what councillors from the District of Muskoka felt when approached by Muskoka Arts and Crafts to help promote Muskoka’s thriving arts community. This month a resolution has been passed declaring Muskoka a designated arts community — something that happened quicker than expected.

Sara Hall, the president for Muskoka Arts and Crafts, said an artist from Warkworth visited to give a workshop and mentioned that his village was a designated arts community and how it really benefitted local artists.

“As soon as he started talking a light bulb went off,” said Hall. “It just made so much sense to get Muskoka designated. From national icons, international musicians, renowned artists as well people who are picking up a paint brush for the first time. Muskoka inspires creativity. Our artists have become as integral as our landscape.”

Hall and the MAC committee approached the District of Muskoka and were directed to the economic development committee. Its members welcomed the proposal as a way of being able to promote Muskoka and it was instantly put before the main council that fully supported the initiative.

“It all happened so fast,” said Hall. “There was so much support for the motion as well. It is great timing as we have another busy summer season ahead and we can get to work promoting all the art Muskoka has to offer. Muskoka Arts and Crafts helps promote hundreds of visual artists but there is so much more here. We have such a wealth of writers, storytellers, musicians that will benefit from this.”

Hall says that arts and culture are important to making a community stronger by contributing to the economy and quality of life of its citizens. Focusing on the arts will help to promote Muskoka as a year-round destination and this designation can be used by a variety of organizations and groups such as Muskoka Tourism, the chambers of commerce, resorts, businesses, theatre and film, private and public galleries, studio tours, along with arts and music festivals.

“By passing this motion to declare Muskoka as a designated arts community, council has given the arts community visible support and a tool for businesses and organizations to further develop Muskoka’s reputation as a culturally vibrant area,” added Hall.

Formally started in 1963, MAC represents a growing membership of more than 360 artists and art supporters. Through its annual art and craft shows, gallery exhibitions, student art bursaries, permanent collection, workshops, lectures, open drawing studios, web site, outreach to community groups and schools, advocacy and lobbying, it helps to foster an environment where artists thriveand patrons can engage in the visual arts.