New Space Update – A Kawartha Representation Using Wood, Water and Nature!
This past Thursday June 19th we had the privilege of inviting some of our near and dear along with area residents, to the Kawartha Art Gallery (KAG). It was an opportunity to share progress on the design and direction that Home by Tim + Chris with Linborough Property Corp are helping to bring forward. It was exciting to have our supporters in the room to share the vision for what will be our new arts and cultural space for the community we call home. In the spirit of preservation and acknowledgement of the vast diversity in our region, the new KAG will provide versatility for programming, exhibition and permanent collection storage for the Gallery.
Conceptual imagery shown from Home by Tim + Chris, provides an idea of the bright, clean and visually calming environment that the new design conveys.
Unique Kawartha Style
The new space will be about creating a future foundation to grow, celebrate and experience works of art. The new design does exactly that. The presented vision is to add to the traditional shape of the old livery stable and introduce wood, water and nature as materials we traditionally see in our region. The new Kawartha Art Gallery building will be a bricks and mortar representation of our mandate; to bring the community a cultural hub that allows for diverse and accessible experiences that reimagine the narrative for arts and culture in rural Ontario. As a serene and beautiful place, the space will have a unique style reflective of our Kawartha communities. The KAG team are excited to collaborate and make this a reality!
Another conceptual representation of wide-open space with how lighting will be incorporated to enhance and elevate the art viewing experience.
Natural Flow
Principal, Chris Van Lierop of Home by Tim + Chris, describes the design as being a “regional representation of materials, accessible formats and spaces that reflect culture in rural Ontario.” The vision is an environment that promotes a natural flow. Art will be displayed on walls and mobile dividers to harmoniously integrate the beauty of surrounding nature.
An example of what the front desk will look like using wood beams and organic materials to represent nature and portray a Kawartha aesthetic. Gallery walls will accommodate a storage feature for easy art rotation and collection access.
Floorplan Overview
A spacious, open concept floor plan includes adjustable lighting and varying display levels to elevate the visitor experience. Features like stackable and mobile chairs, moveable walls and discreet storage solutions will enhance versatility throughout the space. Office space will be bright and private while maintaining connectivity to the gallery space. Moveable dividers will assist with modular options for various work day requirements.
The floor plan presented was received well as it allows for a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor experiences.
A Flexible Space
As a beloved part of the Kawartha Lakes community, the design will help the gallery easily transform from hosting exhibitions during key seasons to becoming fully equipped for workshops and programs.
Various elevations help demonstrate how features like the gift shop display wall will showcase various retail items.
Kitchen view to show storage and the open layout. There will also be an accessible bathroom nearby.
A Design Story
With tourism in the Kawarthas expanding to attract an increase in cultural tourism consumers, the Gallery’s new home will be a significant driver towards achieving important economic development goals through the Gallery’s capacity to now contribute significantly to programming and events for our community.
From Executive Director Susan Taylor: “Kawartha Art Gallery’s new home at 19 Cambridge will also provide the Gallery with the opportunity to meet the interests of a changing demographic as the Gallery’s new exhibit space will have three designated exhibit areas, a dedicated exhibit space for the Gallery’s Permanent Collection, a dedicated exhibit space for professional artists and a dedicated exhibit space available to individuals who may be new to the community or just be starting to pursue an interest in creating art and wish to experience an exhibit experience.”
It’s exciting to realize how the new space will allow KAG to feature work, inspire future generations and lift up talent that attracts visitors and investment to the area. Picturesque landscapes and diverse topography have long been an inspiration and draw for local artistic expression. Having an outdoor area for events and programming will allow for versatility and encourage use of the outdoor space.
From maximized storage functionality to an outdoor programming space, the new Gallery will be a visually cohesive, inviting space. We look forward to sharing the new space progress with you over the next while!
If you would like to support the Gallery in realizing its vision for the new space, please reach out to Susan. We can collaborate to provide our community with the exceptional cultural experience it deserves.
