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October 21, 2025
WINDSOR, Ont. — Three major local arts organizations — Windsor International Film Festival (WIFF), Windsor Symphony Orchestra (WSO), and Art Windsor Essex (AWE) — are proud to collaborate on an event with the Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce (WECC) to celebrate the release of the recent ArtWorks report co-authored by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and Business / Arts. The report, which is set to be released on October 28, showcases the economic impact and importance of the presence of arts organizations in local communities.
“A thriving arts sector is a cornerstone of a resilient economy. At the Chamber, we see the arts not just as cultural enrichment, but as a catalyst for innovation, talent attraction, and regional prosperity,” says Ryan Donally, President & CEO, Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce. “When organizations like AWE, WIFF, and WSO invite bold conversations and civic collaboration, they help shape a future where creativity and commerce grow hand in hand.”
“The arts and culture sector enriches every aspect of Canadian life, fostering belonging, well-being, and stronger communities. As a high-impact economic driver, arts and culture contribute significantly to Canada’s prosperity. Through our partnership with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Business Data Lab and the Canada Council for the Arts, we are quantifying culture’s measurable contribution to Canada’s economy and quality of life,” says Aubrey Reeves, President & CEO, Business / Arts. “The data reinforces that a thriving arts and culture sector is essential to a thriving Canada.”
ArtWorks: Where Culture Meets Commerce will feature a panel discussion with Vincent Georgie, Executive Director and Chief Programmer, WIFF, Patti Lauzon, Executive Director, WSO, and Jennifer Matotek, Executive Director, AWE, moderated by Ryan Donally, President and CEO of WECC. The discussion will focus on examining the role of arts investment in driving economic and social outcomes.
“The arts bring people together, and we simply cannot have a healthy economy or community without a strong social network. Patrons, sponsors, artists…all these groups contribute to the economy in several ways,” says Patti Lauzon, Executive Director, Windsor Symphony Orchestra. “Thriving arts communities attract more tourism, attract talent, and, overall, create positive spaces for us to work, live, and grow.”
Following the discussion, attendees will be invited to attend the WIFF 2025 Centrepiece screening of Ai Weiwei’s Turandot, a timely documentary showcasing the power of art in times of political and community instability. The film is one of over 300 screenings happening at the 2025 Windsor International Film Festival which runs from October 23 to November 2.
“WIFF is proud to be a consistent driver of economic activity in our community,” says Vincent Georgie, Executive Director and Chief Programmer of WIFF. “The Festival was built by members of our community and supports artists and businesses from across the region and the country.”
“AWE believes that art is not only a cultural force—it’s a civic one. AWE soon launches a 2026-30 new strategic plan that challenges us to reimagine what a public art gallery can be: a boldly welcoming space where artists and audiences engage in brave conversations, spark connections, and co-create transformational experiences,” says Jennifer Matotek, Executive Director, Art Windsor Essex. “By exploring how the arts intersect with economic vitality, we underline our commitment to civic engagement and regional growth. Presenting this data together is rooted in our value of collaboration and belief that art can open minds and hearts to new ideas and ways of thinking.”
For more information about WIFF, to discover the full programming schedule to buy film tickets, visit WIFF2025.com. Stay in touch with WIFF via the festival’s Facebook page, Twitter, Instagram, or by signing up to receive WIFF news via email by visiting windsorfilmfestival.com.
