cSPACE arts hub breaks ground

The transformation of a century-old school into an arts hub in the community of Marda Loop is officially underway.

cSPACE, a 47,000-square-foot development centred by King Edward School, celebrated its groundbreaking last week. cSpace purchased the school and surrounding 1.2-hectare site from the Calgary Board of Education in 2012.

"cSPACE King Edward will be transformational for our city," said Calgary Arts Development president and CEO Patti Pon. "Not only will it support our creative community, enrich its neighbourhood and strengthen Calgary's arts ecosystem, but the King Edward will also serve as a sustainable model for future arts incubators."

The venture is a social enterprise dedicated to supporting artists, non-profits and entrepreneurs in the arts and culture sector. cSPACE was established in 2011 by the City of Calgary, Calgary Arts Development and the Calgary Foundation with an initial investment of $7.8 million. Since then, the Province has given $4.65 million, and more than $2 million has come from philanthropic donations.

"The Calgary Foundation's continued commitment to community and the arts is exemplified in this unique project that encourages exciting collaborations," said Calgary Foundation president and CEO Eva Friesen. "It is this energy that revitalizes and builds our communities and neighbourhoods."

Tagged: Calgary | Calgary Community | cSpace | King Edward School | Marda Loop