The New Normal: Hornby Island finally getting long-awaited arts centre, challenges remain

CHEK

After two decades of dreaming, Hornby Island will finally be getting a long-awaited arts centre.

Construction is set to begin purpose-built arts facility that will include dedicated space for exhibitions and installations as well as “intimate presentation and performance space” for residents on Hornby Island.

In this episode of the New Normal, CHEK’s Stacy Ross speaks to Andrew Mark, executive director of the Hornby Arts Council, about what the arts centre means for the island and why the council needs more money for the facility.

“On our Island, we have perhaps the highest density of artistry and artists in all of Canada, and yet we are working out of a trailer, a 1960s trailer,” he said. “It’s enormous to imagine that we will be able to have a modern arts centre, perhaps, within a year, if we’re lucky.”

Although more than $1 million has been raised for the centre, construction costs have soared beyond the planned budget and more money is needed to complete the project.

“Today, the $1.2 million cannot get you what it could have in March,” he said.

Watch the full interview in the video above.

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