What exciting times to be an artist in Cornwall! This week, Arts and Culture made the front page of local newspapers. Wednesday February 25th, at the Civic Complex, stakeholders, artists, politicians and interested citizens came together to be informed and share ideas with consultants from VG Architects regarding the location, programming and design of an arts and culture centre in our city.

Many members from Focus Art were on hand to express the needs of visual artists and their vision of sharing studio space, teaching areas, gallery and exhibition space. There seemed to be a consensus that there be openness, allowing a crosspollination of ideas among all the disciplines in the design of the centre. Despite the discouraging weather, The Open House brought many people together for a first time around one common goal: the reality of an art centre. This is so exciting. By no means is the process complete, but I would dare say, it’s well on its way. If you missed the event you can still have input by filling in the survey; just Google: Cornwall Arts and Culture Centre Feasibility Study or send your ideas to Jamie Fawthrop.

 In the photo Louise Mignault shares her ideas with Dan Wojcik, one of the consultants.

Also this week, a group of independent artists led by Tracy Davis, set up a petition on line (change.org) inviting readers to endorse a Statement of Unity for an art centre built on inclusiveness, cooperation, and respect of ALL regional artists, patrons and visitors. Todd Bennett kindly received more than 200 signatures in the two days it was on line. Is this an example of unity? I think so.