The new space is designed to incorporate many different styles of art, ranging from sculpture to graphic design. The 3,689 square foot space will include an art gallery, library and spaces for events and art therapy. The Foundry will also include two studio spaces that will be rented out to artists.
The new space aims to host educational programming and classes on subjects like oil and acrylic painting, puppetry and pottery, with material aimed at people of all ages and skill levels. The programming hopes to teach art as a means of personal development, as well as a skill, with workshops including “Introduction to Art Making for Mental Health & Wellness” and “The Mystery Behind Expressionist Art.”
The Foundry is the outgrowth of the Leduc Art Club, a volunteer group of local creatives. Among its other duties, the space will serve as the club’s new headquarters. The group has also hosted the Leduc Art Walk, which provides a sidewalk showcase open to all artists. The Foundry says that their organization:
“Will be a centrally located and inclusive arts collective, and will deliver authentic artistic experiences to our community with the help of passionate, community-based artisans.”
The Leduc Arts Foundry will have the official grand opening for its new arts space in the Leduc Recreation Centre on October 3.