A new Nickle

February 24, 2010

New Nickle Arts Museum receives $3 million from City of Calgary

University Librarian Tom Hickerson in the new site for The Nickle Arts Museum.

The City of Calgary has approved a contribution of $3.234 million towards the completion of The Nickle Arts Museum at its new location in the Taylor Family Digital Library at the University of Calgary. The building is scheduled to open in Spring 2011.

Alderman Ric McIver who chairs the Standing Policy Committee on Community and Protective Services that recommended the proposal, said, “We’re pleased to have supported this addition to the Taylor Family Digital Library.  It’s an important cultural component that will benefit all Calgarians.”

The Nickle Arts Museum has a strong tradition of showcasing Calgary and regional artists, and its new location will mean greater exposure and new programming opportunities.  In its new site, the Nickle will join the Rosza Centre, the Reeve Theatre and the new boutique Hotel Alma as a focal point for cultural activities in Calgary's northwest.

“We are delighted to be partnering with the City in this project," said Alan Harrison, U of C's Provost and Vice-President Academic.  "This project has helped set the stage for innovative ways of working together."

“The Nickle Arts Museum has a long history as an anchor of Calgary's visual art scene," said Alderman Joe Ceci who is also a board member at Calgary Arts Development. "Universities are an essential part of any creative city and the expansion of the Nickle will provide even more opportunities for citizens to engage in arts experiences in Calgary."

Tom Hickerson, Vice-Provost (Libraries & Cultural Resources) and University Librarian agrees.  "This is a tremendous contribution. It creates an exciting new cultural catalyst on campus and opens up new possibilities for collaboration with the community," Hickerson said. Hickerson has spearheaded the project which he sees as the finishing touch on a $50.5 million museum development within the Taylor Family Digital Library.