CUT KNIFE – Art lovers will soon have a new gallery to visit in the town of Cut Knife.
It was announced on social media that space within the building that is home to the Cut Knife Library and the Museum’s Administration & Archives Centre has become available for use. The street-facing room was slated to be an office, however there was mention of turning it into an art gallery.
The Clayton McLain Memorial Museum Board of Trustees gave their support to the initiative as a division of the museum. Although the plans are still in the beginning stages, the gallery will have an advisory committee and funding, with some administrative help from the CMMM.
Randy Strelioff, treasurer of the CMMM, said work has already begun on the space.
“We’re presently installing a hanging system, a track lighting system and a security system along with some minor cosmetic work to adapt the space for displays,” he said.
Strelioff said that while there is no formal board or committee at this time, planning meetings are still going forward with interested parties.
“We would hope to be open by May 1, or thereabouts,” Strelioff said.
“Debbie MacLeod, secretary for the CMMM, has been looking at some special art projects for Canada Day to promote the gallery and art in general, but that is still in early development,” he added. The gallery plans to be open to the public during library hours or by appointment.
An informal survey that was conducted by the CMMM discovered roughly 30 names of people from Cut Knife, Little Pine First Nation, Poundmaker Cree Nation, Sweetgrass First Nation and surrounding communities who would be interested in displaying their items.
“We’ve had interest from schools and a long-term care home to exhibit, along with a small art collection the CMMM has. We don’t think we will have any difficulties finding interesting things to display,” said Strelioff.
Anyone interested in volunteering time or becoming a member of the committee can reach out to the CMMM or any of its members.
