Gov’t Leaders Unite for Arts and Culture

Belleville, ON – September 25, 2025 – The Quinte Arts Council (QAC) proudly celebrated the 31st annual Arts Recognition Awards Luncheon at Dinkel’s Restaurant in Belleville, honouring six outstanding members of the Quinte arts community. This significant celebration brought together community leaders, elected officials, artists, and arts supporters to recognize the vital role that arts and culture play in shaping the Quinte region.

The celebration highlighted six remarkable award recipients: Luisé Cisneros, Emebet Belete, Phil Bowerman, Lola Reid Allin, Kristina McIntosh, and Jennifer E. Brant. Each honouree was recognized for their contributions to the arts, their cultural leadership, and their lasting impact on the creative vibrancy of the Quinte region.

Celebrating Arts Leadership

The luncheon featured a series of inspiring speeches underscoring the importance of the arts in our communities. Rick Moulton, Chair of the Quinte Arts Council Board of Directors, opened the ceremony by emphasizing the council’s long-standing commitment to fostering creativity and inclusion. Local leaders including Neil Ellis, Mayor of the City of Belleville, and Tyler Allsopp, MPP for Bay of Quinte, reflected on the economic and cultural benefits of a thriving arts sector.

“The arts community in Bay of Quinte contributes much to our region through expressive, thought-provoking work that can entertain, challenge and inspire audiences, fostering community and driving economic activity,” said Allsopp. “Congratulations to the six Arts Recognition Awards winners on today’s recognition of their leadership, their vision, and their action.”

National and provincial voices also echoed their support. Hon. Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, and Chris Malette, MP for Bay of Quinte, praised the resilience and innovation of artists in the region. Missy Knott, Board Director with the Ontario Arts Council (OAC), spoke passionately about the OAC’s Arts Across Ontario report, highlighting how arts and culture not only enrich lives but also significantly strengthen local economies.

In addition to the award recipients, this community recognition event celebrated the many local artists and arts organizations who receive support from the Ontario Arts Council. Their presence was acknowledged as a testament to the essential role of sustained arts funding in building inclusive, creative, and connected communities.

“Arts and culture are more than performances and exhibitions,” said Moulton. “They are the core of our communities, fostering belonging, resilience, and pride. Today, we celebrate not just six exceptional individuals, but the collective power of the arts to transform lives.”