Spacious, welcoming and with stunning views – words used to describe the Arts and Culture Colwood Society’s centre on Goldfinch Road by artists who fear that city building plans will disrupt their serene setting.
In late 2023, the society moved into the city-owned ‘Goldfinch Building’, located in Lagoon West Park on the shore of Esquimalt Lagoon, on a two-year no-fee lease agreement with the city. The space has proved a huge success, with the society’s centre voted into the top three in the category of ‘Best Art Gallery’, in Black Press Media’s recent Best of the City awards.
But the city plans to build a 355 square-foot multi-purpose room, attached to the north side of the building, has left the group of artists dismayed.
The society says the extension will obstruct a “stunning view” of the lagoon, the Salish Sea and surrounding parklands, impacting their gallery and teaching programs.
“This will significantly reduce the natural light, which plays a critical role in how the art is perceived in the space,” said Laura Davis, the society’s president and executive director, at a council meeting on Aug. 26.
“These views create a unique and serene atmosphere that cannot be replaced by artificial light or interior design,” she continued, explaining the society wants to protect the resource for the entire community.
The building plans include new public washrooms, accessible both from the park and the interior, something Davis says the society was aware of and had agreed to. But Davis told councillors the society was unaware of plans for the additional multi-use room.
At the meeting, she called for urgent further discussion between the two parties. Davis’ words were echoed by several other members of the society.
“Without the view, the building is just a rectangular block,” said Linda Kirstein.
In response to the pleas, Colwood Mayor Doug Kobayashi said he was the society’s “number one fan”, and described himself as “torn”. He also explained he never thought of the space as a permanent home for the society, instead imagining building something similar, in a location more accessible for visitors.
“From my own perspective, this has to exist,” said Kobayashi. “Arts and culture in our community has to exist. As old George Bush would say, ‘Read my lips’. That’s my attitude.”
The plans for the Goldfinch Building align with the city vision for enhancing Lagoon West Park, as part of its Waterfront Stewardship Plan.
“Adding public washrooms and multi-purpose space will further enhance enjoyment of this hidden gem and unique natural and cultural amenity in Colwood’s Lagoon neighbourhood,” according to a news release from the city in early August.
At the Aug. 26 meeting, Kobayashi offered reassurance he wanted to see the society succeed, and there would be further consultation on the city’s waterfront plans.
“We have to look at the big picture, what is good for all of Colwood,” he said.
Both Coun. Cynthia Day and Coun. Misty Olsen also called for the society and city to have further conversations about the building.
“All families squabble, so let’s not sweat it, let’s just get it right,” said Day.