SASKATOON – Construction of the Remai Modern Art Gallery is nearly finished, according to a report going to a Saskatoon City Council committee. The work by EllisDon is about 90 per cent complete, with construction slated for completion in late 2016 and doors opening in early 2017.
City officials took members of the media on a tour of the gallery Friday afternoon. Walking through the entrance of the building, equipment, pylons and construction workers could be seen around the area.
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Once complete, the ground floor will be free to the public. It will also feature a restaurant and spaces for performance art.
“The ground floor is a true public space. It will be open and accessible to all. Part of the architecture is to reflect that,” said Jeanna South, special projects manager with the City of Saskatoon.
The last media tour of the building happened in September. Since that time, progress has been made on metal panelling on the east, north and west sides of the building. Interior atrium glass on certain levels, walls and ceilings have all started to take shape.
A large loading dock opens new opportunities.
“What is really exceptional about this is the ability for large trucks to back in and unload art in a stable and a secure environment,” South said.
The tour also exhibited several spaces for educational and community programming, like the Cameco Learning Centre.
“One of the great things about this space is that it’s card-access controlled. So it keeps the kids safe and it also keeps the adults safe out there,” said Gregory Burke, executive director and CEO of Remai Modern.
The report going to the standing policy committee on utilities and corporate services said there is still a funding shortfall for the gallery of between $2.5 and $4.5 million.
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