The Woodstock Art Gallery is getting a major facelift, thanks to over $940,000 from the Government of Canada and the City of Woodstock. The plan? To jazz up the fourth floor of the gallery, adding more space and giving it a much-needed upgrade.

An Expanded Canvas

Right now, this gallery is spread over three floors in the old John White Building. It’s the only public art gallery in Oxford County, offering everything from art displays to classes and workshops. The new project aims to revamp the fourth floor, which sitting idle. The goal? To create more room for cultural and educational activities.

A Place for Creativity

The gallery is a hotspot for classes, workshops, artist talks, and community events. This upgrade will cater to the growing demand for these programs, especially for seniors, youth, and people with disabilities. Plus, it’s not just about space—it’s about making the building more energy-efficient and safer. They’re expecting a 26.6% drop in energy use and a cut of 37.8 tonnes in greenhouse gas emissions every year once the changes are done.

What They’re Saying

Minister Sean Fraser highlight the gallery’s vital role in showcasing local art and culture. He’s stoked that the investment will help the gallery make better use of the historic space while being kinder to the environment. Mayor Jerry Acchione chimed in, praising the cultural gem the gallery is for Woodstock, happy that the funding will keep it buzzing with events and programs for everyone.

Gallery’s Director Speaks Up

Mary Reid, the Director/Curator, is thrill about transforming the fourth floor into a lively space. She sees it as a way to keep the Woodstock Art Gallery at the forefront of creative expression in the region. The upgrade aligns with their mission to preserve local art and promote new artistic experiences.

Some Fast Facts

The Canadian government’s pitching in over $940,000, while Woodstock City is adding more than $235,000 to the pot. And hey, at least 10% of this cash is set aside for projects benefiting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, including Indigenous folks in urban areas.

This initiative is part of Canada’s climate plan, aiming to cut greenhouse gases, amp up energy efficiency, and make buildings more resilient to climate change. The plan’s shelling out a cool $1.5 billion over five years to make buildings green and accessible.

What’s Next

With these bucks flowing in, the Woodstock Art Gallery’s future looks brighter. The expand space will not only offer more cultural activities but also reduce the gallery’s carbon footprint. It’s a win-win for art lovers and the environment alike.