Ep. 9 — Why Toronto still needs to believe in art
From Makers & Shakers by Meres J. Weche
December 13, 2025 · 34 min · Episode 9
About this episode
The episode discusses the importance of arts funding in Toronto with Kelly Langgard, emphasizing its role in the city's future.
In this episode, we speak with Kelly Langgard, Director and CEO of the Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation, about why arts funding matters in a city under pressure. From the 50th anniversary theme “Believe in Art” to paid mentorship, Black arts operating support, and the balance between public and private investment, the conversation reframes culture as essential infrastructure shaping Toronto’s social, economic, and creative future.
People in this episode
Host: Meres J. Weche
Guest: Kelly Langgard
Topics covered
- arts funding
- cultural infrastructure
- public investment
- private investment
- mentorship
- Black arts support
Keywords
- Toronto
- arts funding
- cultural infrastructure
- mentorship
- Black arts
- public investment
- private investment
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Toronto Arts Council, Toronto Arts Foundation
Places: Toronto
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