Brandon, MB March 20, 2007 – The Internet has long been a tool that has broken down geographical barriers globally, streamlining communications and providing a mass gathering destination for information sharing. In an effort to unite rural artists in an arts festival format that encompasses the entire region without geographic exclusivity, Community Futures Westman and the local arts community has taken the initiative to embrace the power of online social networks and launch the Uniek Arts Festival.

Social networks such as MySpace and Facebook are quickly becoming a hot destination among youth allowing a limitless opportunity to network and communicate. Realizing the social potential of this communications model, the Uniek Arts Festival seeks to create an easy navigable venue that permits young artists to freely exhibit their work, gain insight from peers and converse with other like-minded individuals that will not only strengthen the artistic communities but further develop the region’s creative industries.

The Uniek Arts Festival, accessible at www.uniek.ca, is a six-month online arts gathering featuring youth artists aged 15-29 in the disciplines of visual art, music, photography, film & video and creative writing. Entry into the festival is free and open to any Westman and Parkland area youth. Young artists sign up on the website, create a profile and can then begin uploading as much artwork as they wish in any number of categories. The conclusion of the festival will feature a gala evening with an arts exhibition where top artists will be recognized.

The website launch party is slated for the evening of Thursday March 22, 2007 from 7:30-9:00 PM in foyer of the Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba, 710 Rosser Avenue, in the Town Centre.

To schedule an interview or to obtain more information on the Uniek Arts Festival please contact creative director Jay Yeo at 204.725.5954 or email jay@hetmerk.com