Ladysmith's Creative Future: The Arts & Heritage Hub (Update)

Update (April 7, 2026) From President Andrea Rosato-Taylor

Major Project Launch

With the support of a generous $235,300 grant from the BC Arts Council for leasehold

improvements, alongside the capital funds we have allocated, we are ready to begin revitalizing the old Machine Shop. Our vision for this space includes a new administrative office, a classroom, an expanded printmakers’ studio, and an upstairs gallery. It is important to note that our current use of Davis School is temporary, as the School District has plans for the site in the future.

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The Arts Council of Ladysmith is moving forward with plans to return to the historic building formerly known as the Machine Shop, reimagined as the Arts & Heritage Hub. The building will serve as a Art Interpretive Centre that celebrates the arts . From performing and photographic arts, storytelling, digital and sculptural, the space will boost economy, attracts tourism, and highlight collaboration with Stz’uminus First Nation and other community groups.

The MOU [ Memorandum of Understanding] with the Town of Ladysmith, has secured us with a five-year lease for the following spaces:

Upper Level

Art Gallery – 1,150 sq ft (Multipurpose space and interpretive center for larger exhibits)

• Kitchen – 483 sq ft

  
  

Ground Floor

• Studio 1 – 483 sq ft (Former printmakers space; will serve as printmakers and office space)

• Studio 2 – 460 sq ft (Allocated to printmakers)

• Studio 3 – 690 sq ft (New classroom space)

The lease rate is $5.50 per square foot ($1,540.00) plus utilities per month.

Leasehold improvements valued at approximately $400,000 are required to equip the space with heating, lighting, sinks, drywall, flooring, and paint. 

We are implementing this project in phases, with the initial stage focused on accessing the classroom and printmakers/office areas. We are working in collaboration with Brian Childs (developer/builder) and Angela Quek (architect), who have provided a budget for the anticipated improvements.

Phase 1 Goal: $200,000 for ground floor (Education, printmaking and office space)

We have completed three capital campaign fundraisers: two matching dollar initiatives of $5,000 each that raised a total of $20,000, thanks to Ladysmith residents, Kim Perry and Kirsty Henderson. And another $3875 from a concert with Ladysmith award-winning musician Ryan McMahon. With some monies already set aside from previous fundraisers, we are current at $156,000.

But we need your help.

With approximately $44,000 left to raise, we are asking for donations to get us to that Phase One goal. There are many ways in which you can support this project:

• Canada Helps Campaign (On-going)

  Make a one-time or monthly donation through our website - any donation over $5 will receive a tax receipt. Choose the fund 'Capital Campaign' when filling in the form. https://www.ladysmitharts.ca/donate

  
  

• Bid For The Build Art Auction

Tickets are now available for the high energy art auction on May 22, 2026 from

5 PM - 7 PM at the Arts & Heritage Hub. Bid of your favorite works of art by popular Canadian and local artists. Enjoy light refreshments, music and live art auction. Featuring prominent speakers in the arts and culture sector and emceed by Andrea Rosato-Taylor, this is a night to support the future of the Arts Council of Ladysmith and build the legacy of arts and culture on the west coast.

Tickets are $45: https://www.ladysmitharts.ca/event-details/bid-for-the-build

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Commonly Asked Questions

What is happening with the school location?

We have been notified that the building will be returned to the school district, which has moved us to a month-to-month lease on that space. When the time comes, we will have to vacate.

Will you keep the Ladysmith Gallery location?

Yes! We get amazing foot traffic through our gallery and with close proximity to other local businesses, we just can’t imagine giving up this space. It will remain an art exhibition and boutique shop.

What is the upper level of the new Arts & Heritage Hub going to be?

It could be anything related to arts, culture and heritage! Perhaps large works of art, installations, performance space (poetry, music), events, workshops, you name it! We want to hear your ideas!

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Contact

Transparency is important to us. If you have any questions regarding this project or fundraising efforts, please contact Andrea Rosato-Taylor, Arts Council of Ladysmith and District President - president@ladysmitharts.ca

For media inquires, please contact Francesca Reside, Arts Council of Ladysmith and District Media Coordinator - media@ladysmitharts.ca