A dream becomes reality

More than a decade's worth of hard work paid off with the grand opening of the Christina Living Arts Centre

The story pole inside the Christina Living Arts Centre is the only wood in the building taken from a live tree — Glynis Fediuk photo

On August 6, I had the delight of attending the grand opening of the Christina Living Arts Centre (CLAC) in Christina Lake. The construction of this gallery and visitors centre—the first LEED-certified building of its kind in Canada—was a 13-year process, requiring its proponents to tirelessly pursue their dreams of what could be. In the end, it is undoubtedly worth the work as Christina Lake residents have a building they can be proud of.

Speaking on behalf of the government, Colin Mayes, the MP for Okanagan-Shuswap, summed up the facility by describing it as “an example of determination and drive.” Other speakers included John Slater, MLA Boundary-Similkameen; Lucinda Dupee on behalf of MP Alex Atamanenko; Grace McGregor, director of Area C; Sheldon Wiegle, the president of the Christina Lake Chamber of Commerce; Steve Kaup, the designer and architect, and Bob Dupee, the project manager and member of the Christina Lake Arts and Artisans Society. They gathered to cut a ribbon and invite spectators inside to tour the facility.

One thing that stands out about CLAC is that everything, from the wood beams taken from dead standing timber to recycled insulation, has been used to ensure the building has the smallest environmental impact possible. Adjacent to CLAC is a solar sewage water treatment system, designed by Kim Rink of Eco-Tek, a company specializing in eco-friendly wastewater treatment methods.

Inside CLAC, visitors got a preview of the types of art projects that will be displayed—such as glasswork, jewelry and pottery created by local artists. Christina Lake has a thriving arts scene, including devotees of singing, dancing, painting and much more. Thus, there are plans to expand CLAC in the future, adding an outdoor amphitheatre and an arts studio.

With so much planned for CLAC, it is truly only the beginning of something that is already incredible.

Note: At the time of the grand opening, CLAC had not received its occupancy permit. It is expected that it will be open to the public soon.