Speech by Jennifer Long

Friends of Magenta dinner, May 18th, 2006

Magenta has been a source of support and inspiration for every aspect of my photographic practice.

As a curator, Magenta gave me not only my first exhibition outside of Canada, but also my first exhibition catalogue.

As an artist, Magenta has supported me both in the commercial and fine art world. I am thrilled to say that Carte Blanche was the first book I was ever published in, and that in November, Magenta will be including my work in their Emerging Artist 2006 publication and exhibition.

One of the many strong and visionary aspects of the Magenta Foundation is their willingness to take a chance. For example, Carte Blanche selected 30 emerging artists. So fresh that many of them were even still attending art school, and highlighted them right next to some of Canada¹s most successful photographers such as Barbara Astman, Douglas Copland, Ed Burtnysky and Laura Letinsky. This wonderful mix celebrates the diversity and generations of our strong culture.

Another wonderful aspect of Carte Blanche and the Magenta Foundation as a whole is its ability to bring our arts sector together. When was the last time you can remember picking up a book which was worked on by representatives of artist run centres, universities, magazines, radio, newspapers, commercial and public galleries, individual artists and curators. The result is stunning.

The more international travel I do, the more I understand the desperate need Canada has for an arts publisher such as Magenta. Although the internet, exhibitions, and festivals are wonderful ways of promoting our arts culture, a publication leaves a historical archive and reference. Magenta is helping Canada gain footing on the world stage. Not with one or two super stars, but rather with 230 emerging, mid career and senior artists representing a broad range of talents.

Canada needs Magenta. There is so much amazing work being produced in this country that deserves to be seen around the world. And I feel that incorporating Canadian art with art from around the world is a smart and effective method to gain a profile.

Also, publishing is an important way of making the arts more visible and accessible to the general public. By educating the public, greater awareness and support will be given to the arts. This will produce more arts supporters and collectors as well as additional opportunities for artists to make a livable wage within their professional practice. Every healthy community and nation needs a vibrant arts and culture identity.

We should all be proud and amazed by what the Magenta Foundation has managed to do in such a limited time. And we should be exhilarated by the thought of what their future accomplishments will be!