CORNWALL, Ontario – The art community in Cornwall gathered at their future home in downtown Cornwall on Thursday, July 26, 2018.
The old BMO building was purchased by the City of Cornwall to serve as the city’s new arts centre. The City estimates however that $4 to 6 million will be required in order to adequately renovate the building.
Thursday was the first time the public was allowed inside the building since it was purchased by the City of Cornwall.
The building was opened well into the evening on Thursday as a part of Cornwall’s Art Walk and the public was invited in to get a glimpse of the building’s future. The art walk is a monthly feature during the summer where downtown artists open their doors to the public from 6pm-9pm on the third thursday of the month.
“We wanted to give the artists a sneak peek,” said Elaine MacDonald of the Cornwall Art Collective and Cornwall City Councillor. “I think this building could be an anchor for our downtown.”
The Cornwall Arts Collective is already working towards reaching the fundraising goal.
On Oct. 13, the Arts Collective will be holding their second ever induction dinner for the Cornwall Arts Hall of Fame. Tickets will be $60 each and available at the Ramada Inn.
The City of Cornwall will also be considering providing funding for the renovations.
“Until we know the actual amount of what it is going to cost it is hard to say a number,” said Mayor Leslie O’Shaughnessy. “We would be looking for federal and provincial support.”
Those who wish to contribute independently to the cost of the renovations can make a cheque out to the Art Trust Fund and drop it off at any City of Cornwall office.
