Innisfil AI project received My Main Street support to draw visitors and increase local vibrancy in Innisfil.
October 7, 2024 –Innisfil, ON –The Innisfil ideaLAB & Library is pleased to announce that the Innisfil AI project was selected for the My Main Street Community Activator and has received support to engage local artists and the community in a collaborative exploration of artificial intelligence through art.
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping technological and creative landscapes, but why let AI have all the fun? Innisfil AI plays off the popularity and controversy of generative AI, replacing computers with real artists. Ten artists, chosen by a panel of jurors, will receive a list of prompts submitted by community members. Each artist will select their favourite prompt to bring to life. The completed works will be digitized and displayed in businesses along Innisfil Beach Road in December. Through this initiative, we aim to create a vibrant atmosphere that supports local businesses and encourages residents and visitors alike to explore Innisfil’s artistic offerings.
We are excited to announce the 10 artists who will be transforming the prompts into works of art in their unique styles:
- Angela Aujla
- Asher Hartwin
- Brad Ferguson
- Enrique Bravo
- Maria Kelebeev
- Nicholai Avigdor Melamed
- Neil Smith
- Sarah Hancock
- Sheresha McIntyre
- Tatyana Abel
These artists were chosen from over 30 applicants located across Simcoe County.
Save the Date! Mark your calendar for these next opportunities to engage with the Innisfil AI project:
- Saturday, October 19, 2024, 1:30 p.m. AI Explained: Navigating the Future with Confidence with tech expert and CTV Your Morning regular, Avery Swartz.
- Thursday, November 28, 2024, 6:00 p.m. Innisfil AI Launch Event, preview the completed artworks before they are installed in local businesses.
For more information about the project and the participating artists, please visit us online at Innisfil ideaLAB & Library
My Main Street is built on the principle of supporting community economic development and creating vibrant and diverse neighbourhoods which will enhance the overall quality of life for residents while also promoting sustainable and inclusive community development. My Main Street is delivered by the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI), and supported by a Government of Canada investment through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). Learn more about the My Main Street program at mymainstreet.ca.
Quotes
“The Innisfil AI Community Art Project exemplifies our commitment to fostering creativity and innovation here in Innisfil. This initiative will strengthen our community ties and promote local talent.”
- Mayor Lynn Dollin, Town of Innisfil
“The Innisfil AI Community Art Project is an innovative way to engage our community and highlight the intersection of art and technology. We are thrilled to support our local artists in this endeavour.”
- Erin Scuccimarri, CEO, Innisfil ideaLAB & Library
“We are thrilled at the opportunity to participate in the upcoming Innisfil AI project and display artwork at our restaurant. We think this exciting project will enhance community engagement, supporting local businesses and artists. We look forward to seeing what creative piece is displayed at our restaurant!”
- Marco Loor, Owner, Tenoch Restaurant & Grill, Innisfil
“A community’s resilience is anchored in its main street, and investing in them fosters economic prosperity and growth. Projects like Innisfil AI supported through My Main Street’s Community Activator use intentional and creative placemaking to revitalize their neighborhoods and public spaces. Our program’s investment provides an opportunity for local change makers to build healthy, robust main street communities, and drive social cohesion and economic recovery where it’s needed most.”
- Mary W. Rowe, CEO and President, Canadian Urban Institute
“Canadian Urban Institute, with support from the Government of Canada, is investing in community projects, such as the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library’s AI Community Art Project. These projects attract visitors to our main streets, support local businesses, and revitalize our communities – helping shops, restaurants and local economies thrive. Together, we’re building stronger, more vibrant communities.”
- The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
Associated Links
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Media Contacts
Wendy Ricciardi, Manager, Communications & Events
Innisfil ideaLAB & Library
(705) 431-7410 x 5214
Samantha Staresincic
Communications Manager
My Main Street
Edward Hutchinson
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
edward.hutchinson@feddevontario.gc.ca
Background:
About My Main Street: The My Main Street program has returned with an additional Government of Canada investment, building on an initial investment in 2021, through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) to spur local economic recovery. To date, the initial investment has supported nearly 4,500 businesses and organizations, nearly 7,500 jobs and leveraged nearly $19 million in additional investment. The funding aims to revitalize neighbourhood main streets with a healthy retail mix while generating inclusive economic opportunities. The program now features two streams – Business Sustainability and the Community Activator. My Main Street is delivered by the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI).
About Canadian Urban Institute (CUI): The Canadian Urban Institute is a leading organization dedicated to advancing urban solutions. CUI collaborates with city builders, researchers, and community leaders to create thriving, equitable, and sustainable urban spaces across Canada.
About FedDev Ontario: For 15 years, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has worked to advance and diversify the southern Ontario economy through funding opportunities and business services that support innovation, growth and job creation in Canada’s most populous region. The Agency has delivered impressive results, which can be seen in southern Ontario businesses that are creating innovative technologies, improving productivity, growing revenues, creating jobs, and in the economic advancement of communities across the region. Learn more about the impacts the Agency is having in southern Ontario by exploring our investment profiles, our Southern Ontario Spotlight, and FedDev Ontario’s X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.