THE island’s arts’ priorities were revealed last night at an evening organised by the Arts Commission.

In the next three years the commission wants to engage more people in the arts, develop art in public spaces and increase communication between islanders and artists.

Arts Commission chairman Tony Gallienne (pictured) said the ultimate objective was to create a voice for the island’s diverse art community, while encouraging more people to get involved.

‘There are many people who do not see that the arts are for them, or are fearful of entering a gallery or performing arts space. We are determined to break down those barriers and take the arts out into the island’s communities.’

He outlined some of the initiatives they were about to undertake.

‘We’re hoping to extend the poetry on the buses and get it out into the community.

‘We’re linking up with the Jersey Art Trust to sponsor a radio scriptwriting competition. Our public arts sub-committee wants to increase art in public spaces and our performing arts sub-committee wants to bring more serious theatre to the island.’

The commission invested nearly £200,000 last year through sponsorship and public money from the States.