"The detail and craftsmanship is simply amazing," says Brian Cleaver, Project Manager. "Once our tradesmen begin working on this amazing old building, they soon realized the quality that they were encountering.. Many people may not realize the scope of what was created over 100 years ago, but the trades truly appreciate the craftsmanship of that earlier time.

It isn't often that people today will work on a project for the sheer pleasure of being a part of history, but our tradesmen have been putting in hundreds of hours of their own time. Take Ben Freeburn for instance. He and his excellent crew of two did the framing in the entire building, with its nine-foot ceilings, in only nine days. The cost was $7,000 but Ben refused to take it saying that 'he just wanted to be part of the build.'"

From top to bottom, the elegant little building has been completely renovated to bring it up to today's standards. New 200-amp wiring, track lighting, plumbing, insulation, fire retardant drywall, new floors and an accessibility ramp have brought the entire structure into the 21^st century. The double brick construction with board-and-batten interior now has an energy saving insulation factor of R30 to R35 with R40 in the attic ceiling, so that the school can now be used year round.

While many of the structural improvements are seen by few, the cosmetic changes made have retained the historical integrity and are more obvious: 20 windows have been replaced and the original trim restored, the original arched window over the entrance, cove moldings crafted to match those of 121 years ago and flooring that looks like slate.

Cleaver also explains that, "Many improvements were made with input from artists, such as Al Downs."

.Cleaver listened to the artists and as a result, there is more storage, a drying rack and centralized pressing area for rolling paper and separate sinks for brush clean-ups. In addition, the walls have been constructed with a hanging system that allows paintings to not only be hung for drying but also to act as a display centre. Many instructors today also bring examples of their work on personal laptops for teaching purposes and to accommodate them, there is even a retractable screen recycled from Town Council Chambers.

Upstairs, there is a small apartment accessed by a narrow staircase whose steps show the wear of over 100 years, where, an artist-in-residence can stay at a reduced rent, which is then passed on to students through lower class costs. Here, too, the heritage of the building has been retained with tall energy efficient windows in original casings, and the original claw-foot bathtub that will be returned to a newly remodelled bathroom.

Board member, Gordon Boyd, adds that, "When the original owner of the building dedicated it for cultural purposes, he was very far-sighted.

This school has developed a fine reputation and in five to 10 years, it will be seen as a significant four-season art destination. As it is, we now have close to 1,000 students who want to come here. That's a significant number by any standard."

Boyd goes on to say that, "We would like to see the building used year round, so if people have any ideas we would definitely like to hear them."

The total for the renovation was set at $125,000 and to date, with only a matter of days left until completion, the build is at $122,000.

The official ribbon cutting will take place on May 2^nd , when all trades will also be recognized. Then, on June 7, there will an official opening for artists and a special documentary on June 8

See below for workers and volunteers

(L to R) Cleaver, Diane Huber of the Town Council, Mayor Mike Smith and Art School  Chair Gordon Boyd

Restoration Committee

Amy Weichel & Nancy Wyonch, Fundraising