The Community Studio at Gallery Stratford has functioned as the hub of creative and artistic educational programs for most of our 53 year history.  While still vibrant, the space looked dated and did not meet the capacity demands.  While our space was cramped pre-COVID, the social distancing requirements brought on by the global pandemic made this space useless due to its small size.  The STAT grant allowed us to open up the space, by removing temporary walls installed during the 1990’s more than doubling the size.  Original windows that had been hidden for half a century were uncovered, letting in natural light.  To further create a sense of space and light, the oversized steel utility doors have been replaced with glass doors and an accessibility ramp has been installed for easy access.  Cosmetic improvements include new drywall and fresh white paint help create the feeling of a large inviting space and the old cracked and stained lino flooring has been removed to reveal cement floors that match the existing flooring throughout the building.  Together with the renovation to the adjoining former workshop space, Gallery Stratford now has a large, fully accessible natural light filled, exhibition, education and event space that will allow us to enhance existing programming and create new programs and partnerships for the benefit of the Stratford community and visitors to our city.

‍

• Expanded exhibition opportunities for artists

• New art class and program development providing opportunities for artists to teach and the community to develop new or enhance existing skills

• Opportunity to partner with local performers and performing arts companies

• Creation of new event venue – offering further opportunities for income generation by Gallery Stratford, and opportunities for caterers, photographers, event planners

• Expand revenue generation for Gallery Stratford resulting in being able to obtain and retain new staff

‍