Metcalf Arts Policy Fellowship

In announcing the fellowship, Executive Director Claire Hopkinson noted, "This fellowship affords Toronto Arts Foundation and the arts community an important opportunity for consideration of the impact of policy on our community. As a practicing artist who is versed in arts policy, Shannon is the ideal candidate for the role. e are delighted to welcome her to the fellowship."

"I am thrilled at the opportunity to deepen my engagement in arts policy as the first-ever Metcalf Arts Policy Fellow. With time to explore relevant questions, I hope to consider how policy at all levels of government can more effectively nurture a healthy arts ecology that serves Canadians with excellent and meaningful artistic experiences, reflective of a rich and diverse Canadian identity", commented Ms. Litzenberger.

Over a period of two years, Litzenberger will consider how to improve the ways in which communities engage in arts policy dialogue and advance policy goals to affect positive change at all levels of government. Fellowship activities will include research and investigation as well as active participation in existing forums where arts policy conversations and actions are taking shape.

Sandy Houston, President of the George Cedric Metcalf Foundation remarked "The Metcalf Foundation has long noted the need for the arts sector to take a more proactive role in the area of public policy. We are excited by the opportunity to work with Shannon in this forum -- she is an exciting and talented young arts leader who will approach the role with vision and creativity -- and we look forward to partnering with the Toronto Arts Foundation in her research and exploration over the next two years."

The Metcalf Arts Policy Fellowship will be housed and administrated by the Toronto Arts Foundation and funded by the George Cedric Metcalf Foundation, The John D. McKellar Foundation, Business for the Arts and Toronto Arts Foundation.