Ladysmith’s Creative Future: The Arts & Heritage Hub

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:

Bid For The Build Art Auction

A high energy art auction scheduled for March 27, 2026 The event will include light refreshments, music and live art auction. 2 tier ticket options available soon! 

We are currently accepting 2D artworks of any size for this event. All works will be juried and must have a minimum value of $200. To donate artworks,  complete the online form: ladysmitharts.ca/fundraisers 

Deadline to submit is Wed Feb 25. Donors will receive a tax receipt if artwork sells.

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!

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