Christmas just the start of exciting happenings at Kootenay Gallery
By Castlegar Source
The Kootenay Gallery may appear to be all about the holidays right now, with its renowned Christmas exhibit and sale, but behind-the-scenes happenings involve a great deal more than December celebrations.
In a presentation to city council last week, board member Audrey Maxwell Polovnikoff said the focus is now on the massive undertaking of finding the gallery a new home.
“The Relocation of the Kootenay Gallery to a more visible, accessible location within the City of Castlegar continues to be the main focus of our board and we are extremely pleased with the work done to date,” she said, adding they have conducted a feasibility study exploring relocation options. “Preliminary findings have revealed the gallery’s potential relocation to be a long-term and labour-intensive undertaking (which) can only be accomplished with the assistance of an independent project manager.
“This individual would be tasked with identifying a location, researching and applying for funding, collaborating with an architect to develop conceptual drawings and building plans and ultimately leading to the building and/or renovation of a future home for the gallery.”
She said the board will be seeking support from a variety of funding sources to facilitate such a hire, as they are “determined” to see the move come to fruition.
In the interim, however, their Christmas exhibit and sale are well under way.
“The whole gallery is filled with a huge selection handcrafted items made by local artists and artisans including metal work, wood, fiber, pottery, jewellery, garden art, paintings, ornaments and much more,” said curator Val Field. “This is the perfect opportunity to not only find that one-of-a-kind gift but also a chance to support local artists and artisans.”
The Kootenay Gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Starting Dec. 1, the hours will be extended to seven days a week, 10a.m. to 5 p.m. until Dec. 24. They are located across from the Castlegar Airport adjacent to the Doukhobor Discovery Centre on Heritage Way. For more information visit www.kootenaygallery.com email kootenaygallery@telus.net or phone 250-365-3337.
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