SASKATOON, April 27, 2005 -- The Saskatoon Gallery and Conservatory Corporation, operators of the Mendel Art Gallery, will receive $438,513 in funding from the Government of Canada to undertake Phase 1 of its facility renovation and expansion project. The announcement was made today by Ralph Goodale, Minister of Finance, on behalf of Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women Liza Frulla.Phase 1 of this renovation and expansion project will provide the Mendel Art Gallery Board with a clearer picture of the complete building project proposal and a comprehensive breakdown of project cost and details. The organization will undertake an environmental assessment, finalize its facility development plan, complete the schematic design, pre-design survey and investigations, and re-install existing skylights. "The Mendel Gallery is a shining light on Saskatchewan's cultural scene that enjoys a dynamic relationship with its community," said Minister Goodale. "Thorough planning for the expansion and renovation of this space will enable the Mendel's board to make informed decisions on how to improve the facility to better serve the roughly 200,000 visitors to the Gallery every year.""By investing in our country's arts and heritage infrastructure, we help ensure dynamic and culturally rich communities," said Minister Frulla. "Modern, stable, better-equipped facilities increase the ability of organizations to preserve, present and display our heritage and cultural products for future generations."Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Cultural Spaces Canada Program. This program supports cultural infrastructure projects that increase access for Canadians to performing, visual, and media arts and also improves physical conditions for artistic creativity and innovation. Funding is also provided for the construction and renovation of arts and heritage facilities, for the purchase of specialized equipment, and for feasibility studies and projects to transform buildings into arts or heritage facilities. Funding announced today was provided for in the February 2005 federal budget. Information:Jean-Philippe CôtéDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women(819) 997-7788Pat BretonPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Finance(613) 996-3225Brigitte GibsonManager, CommunicationsPrairies and Northern RegionCanadian Heritage(204) 983-7875
