A tentative design has been unveiled for the proposed West Shore Arts and Culture Centre.
The concept design was revealed last week at the West Shore Arts Gala in an effort to build momentum and support for the project, which would see an arts centre built in the region.
This project seeks to bring performance and rehearsal spaces, along with outdoor plazas and indoor spaces that could host fundraisers, conferences, markets, festivals and community gatherings for the West Shore arts community.
The concept art was designed by a local Victoria company, Cascadia Architects, who have completed numerous notable projects on Vancouver Island since 2013.
“This concept is about more than bricks and mortar,” said Peter Johannknecht, principal at Cascadia Architects.
“It’s about creating a gathering place that reflects the soul of the West Shore with a space that celebrates culture, learning, and belonging.”
To create the vision for this design, over 70 arts and cultural groups across Greater Victoria gave their input.
At the gala, Executive Director of Kaleidoscope Theatre Pat Rundell spoke to address the urgency of this project.
“Our region is one of the fastest-growing in the province, yet we lack the safe, mid-sized, professionally equipped venues that artists, families, and young people deserve,” said Rundell.
“Investing in this centre means investing in our cultural economy, in local artists, and in a future where everyone in the West Shore has access to high-quality arts experiences close to home.”
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The project is being spearheaded by the Juan de Fuca Performing Arts Centre Society who are working with the Capital Regional District to see a proper theatre, performance space and community arts hub be built.
As of this publication, the next goal, following the concept design reveal, will be to acquire a location for the arts hub.
Currently, potential sites are being explored in Colwood, Langford and View Royal, though specifics were not shared at this time.
