Dear Editor
I understand there will be a public forum on Nov. 3 at the Shadbolt Centre to hear about and discuss the possibilities of a new art gallery for Burnaby, and I am pleased to know about this.
I am in support of a new gallery space in Burnaby that would house the many collected works it has, offer larger shows and provide an open inviting space that honours what people create, including the new building itself and future jobs.
I believe that viewing and being inspired by original works of celebrated artists, their predecessors, and even amateur artists can offer great benefits and education that classes, books, and even videos cannot fully provide. A new space designated for all of these things and a good display space is not for a “special interest group”, but rather feeds the vitality of the community by showcasing and celebrating what we imagine, create, offer and communicate.
Art embodies and expresses life and culture playing a major role in maintaining a vibrant and healthy community. To me, having a place to showcase art well is as important as a park, library, or sports and leisure facility, because art itself inspires.
A new art facility could involve various events for youth and schools and would greatly benefit the generations to come.
The painting I’ve included with this letter is my rendition of how members of a community, big and small, work together as a whole and become colourful.
Jane Appleby, Burnaby
