KAGAWONG—The Township of Billings library board was successful in receiving funding to support the NorthWords Festival.
The funding of $9,993 from the Ontario Arts Council (OAC) supports the creation, production and presentation of artwork and community-engaged arts initiatives that benefit communities in Northern Ontario.
“We are extremely grateful for the grant from the Ontario Arts Council. This funding will allow us to host a premier event with activities and programming for our community,” said Billings library chair Willa Wilson.
The festival will take place July 21-22 and features a wide range of talented individuals including author Shelley Pearen, author and television writer Claire Ross Dunn, poet Sophie Ann Edwards, playwright Kirk Dunn and artist Michael Cywink.
The first annual NorthWords Festival kicks off on the afternoon of July 21 with an opening ceremony featuring the M’Chigeeng Ladies Drum group and keynote address by Shelley Pearen. In the evening, the public can take part in the “Book and Brew” author reading meet and greet at Split Rail Brewery. On Saturday the library will be holding its annual book sale fundraiser, as well as hosting a local author showcase with many authors from Manitoulin Island and the North Shore taking part. Artist Michael Cywink will also be there creating a live open-air painting.
Throughout the day several small group workshops on writing, poetry and knitting will take place. The festival wraps up with a performance of Kirk Dunn’s acclaimed one-man show, ‘The Knitting Pilgrim.’
“On behalf of council we are pleased that the library board received funding (from the OAC) for the NorthWords Festival, these type of events are so important to our community,” said Mayor Bryan Barker.
