Katie Burke, chairperson of the Community Fundraising Committee for the Cornwall Arts & Culture Centre has announced that despite the current economics, the fundraising committee has now raised $901,051 with new donations/pledges to come. Burke stated: “The fundraising team is thankful for the great support it has received from local residents, businesses, foundations and various organizations in Cornwall and SD&G.  We are further encouraged by the latest generous $12,500 donation from the William Kaneb Family.”

Burke said that the fundraising committee will be holding an online art auction from April 9 to May 6 sponsored by Scotiabank Cornwall.  There will be over 140 works of art up for auction donated by local and Quebecois artists and from art collections.  The detailed information about the online art auction is on www.bethelink.net.  

Burke said: “We greatly appreciate the support of the artists, the art donors, and Scotiabank Cornwall and Cornwall Square as we work to achieve our goal of $1 million.”

The community fundraising committee is optimistic that with the continued generosity of the community and local arts enthusiasts they will reach their goal.  Burke further stated: “The GRC Architects’ design drawings show that the flexible Arts and Culture Centre with a “black box” performance venue and reception and exhibition spaces and studios for artists will support the arts; improve the quality of life in Cornwall & area; promote tourism; and make our city a full-service, all-amenities community.” 

Burke concluded: “In a pandemic and post -pandemic era, we will need the Arts & Culture Centre and its programming more than ever for our mental health and well-being.”