Lack of Funds Keep Canadian Artist from 2004 Olympics

J. Mac, a Toronto-based sculptor, is one of three artists selected to be a cultural Ambassador of Art for Canada at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece, as a part of Artiade. Unfortunately, Mac will have to cover all of the costs of transporting both herself and her artwork to Greece. Expected funding for the expenses has fallen through.

Toronto, ON (PRWEB) July 17, 2004 -- J. Mac, a Toronto-based sculptor, is one of three artists selected to be a cultural Ambassador of Art for Canada at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece, as a part of Artiade. Unfortunately, Mac will have to cover all of the costs of transporting both herself and her artwork to Greece. Expected funding for the expenses has fallen through. The Canadian embassy in Greece is currently seeking assistance, but is so far unsuccessful. 10,000 is what is needed for Mac to represent her art and Canada in this prestigious international event. Opus restaurant on Prince Arthur and En Francais are offering partial sponsorship, however, she is still seeking the remaining funds from private or corporate sponsors.

The piece which has been chosen for the exhibition, Silent Memory," is a rope and fiber glass sculpture of a mans upper torso, his head and arms between two red crutches. The piece is a clear comment on the physical ramifications of war. It is often forgotten that the Olympics began as Apollos attempt to stop the wars of Greece by ordering a celebration of peace through athletic games during which wars ceased and all weapons were laid aside. As a result, the longest peace treaty in history was created. At a time when the world is littered with constant and increasingly violent conflicts this is an important and provocative piece of art; it speaks to the original spirit of the Olympics and should certainly be viewed by an international audience. Canada is a country that takes great pride in its role as a peacekeeping nation. J. Macs work brings awareness to the victims of war and reinforces the necessity for such efforts; it not only supports the original intent of the Olympic Games, but the current mission and spirit of our country.

Artiade invited 4500 artists from around the world to submit art for the Olympics of visual arts"; only 172 were selected to participate in the show. The event takes place along side the games in Athens. The exhibition hails back to early Greek contests where artists and athletes appeared together as technitai" -- virtuosi representing two facets of a common culture. The exhibition offers an ideal medium for documenting the feel" of any country -- current events, emotions and traditions. Nations participating in the Olympics will send not only their athletes, but also their artists, creating an amazing forum for world culture. Canada has the opportunity to be represented by three artists in this forum; what a shame it will be if we are unable to take part in such a momentous international event.

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