St. George’s, June 30, 2010 (GIS) – Tourism Minister Glynis Roberts has called for more young people to involve themselves in artistic activities. The Minister said government is doing its part to open avenues for the artistic talents of youth, and she is encouraging others to support the young people. “This is a noble profession which has stood the test of time for centuries,’’ Hon. Roberts said at the opening of an art exhibition at the National Museum in St. George’s. The event was also to present awards to the top students who participated in an essay and art competition that was organised to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the establishment of the Town of St. George. Several other activities, including the declaration of historical sites and community festivals, were organised by a Tri-Centennial Committee set up by the Ministry of Tourism. Hon. Roberts said there is an increasing need to engage the minds of the nation’s youth in creative exercises. “I want to join with all to applaud the students and ask their family and friends to give them the necessary support to continue to grow and become professionals,’’ the Tourism Minister said. “Continue to be part of the art programme which we now have at schools. Visit the various studios around Grenada and, very importantly, talk, engage and befriend the senior artists in our community.’’ The Tourism Minister said the completion of the Tri-centennial Park, linking Fort George to parts of the city, will facilitate the further development of art in the country. “We are looking forward to the completion of this area with its amphitheatre, which will add another dimension to our tourism product and the efforts to bring back more life and activities to the town, especially during the evening and weekends,’’ she said. Minister Roberts said the park, which is expected to be officially opened later this year, will include walking tours and business opportunities for people such as tourist vendors, artisans, musicians and cultural groups.