Over 40 Years of Local History and Memories!
The AIM of the Wallaceburg and District Council for the Arts is to:
- Organize, promote and operate shows for local artists.
- Sponsor and support the appearance of provincial on-tour performers in Wallaceburg and the surrounding area.
- The possible coordinator or clearing house for planned cultural events.
- Raise funds for the operations of the council and/or the events it will support and operate.
- Support in whatever way possible and appropriate local art and artists.
- Sponsor, organize and promote, clinics and workshops for the benefit and betterment of local artists.
- Participate in the development, promotion and support of youth art and programs.
- The publication of information of local art happenings.
For four decades the Wallaceburg and District Council for the Arts, through it volunteers, members, community partners, sponsors and loyal audiences, has made a lasting impact on the local musical infrastructure. The goal of the Wallaceburg and District Council for the Arts (WDCA) is to provide Wallaceburg and the surrounding area with the type of cultural performances that are usually only available at larger venues in larger cities. We work as a central hub for creating new partnerships among individual artists, organizations, and businesses in our community. Our mandate includes encouraging both performing and visual artists from our region to continue to develop and pursue their passion.
The Wallaceburg and District Council for the Arts is also very proud to be a part of the reclamation of the Wallaceburg Concert Band. In 2016 the Wallaceburg and District Council for the Arts worked together with Band Conductor – Dave Babbitt and the Lambton Kent District School Board, to make the revival of the Wallaceburg Concert Band possible. In 2019 The Wallaceburg Concert Band severed connections with the LKDSB and moved to its current home in Wallaceburg. The Band operates as part of the Wallaceburg and District Council for the Arts.
The Wallaceburg and District Council for the Arts has formed an ukulele work group. Lead by instructors Janet Barnes and Jeannette Matak, the WADUKES (Wallaceburg and District Ukulele Group). The WADUKES, continue to grow and perform in our community and beyond. A key part of this organization is its teaching component for new and experienced musicians.
Traditionally, the Wallaceburg and District Council for the Arts has held several workshops for local singer/songwriter, guitarists and more. It is the intention of the WDCA to expand this initiative beyond music to foster interest and development in all of the fine arts and performing arts.
The Wallaceburg and District Council for the Arts initiated and sustained an outdoor concert series for the three summers pre Covid 19, providing quality entertainment showcasing local artists and musicians, while offering the ten-week event completely free of charge to the community. The Outdoor Concert Series was held nightly on Tuesday nights in Library Park – a beautiful setting along the bank of the Sydenham River. Last season, WDCA hosted “Thursday Nights on James Street” providing local musical entertainment at The Black Goose during the spring as well as hosting two Dinners with Entertainment at James Street Eatery.
The Wallaceburg and District Council for the Arts continues to be dedicated to provide significant exposure for emerging artists and increased recognition for local experienced artists. We contribute to the economic, social and cultural growth of our community.
Members of the WDCA benefit from an umbrella organization that can offer resources, guidance and connections for local artists, both established and developing.
We are a dedicated group of volunteers committed to helping local artists and promoting the value of the arts to society!
For more information on becoming involved as a “Volunteer” or “Member” of the Wallaceburg and District Council for the Arts please visit our “Membership News” page.