Vancouver Arts Hub
In 2023, the City of Vancouver became the steward of the former community library building at 1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd. The City’s Culture, Arts and Heritage Commission saw this as an incredible opportunity to create a much-needed arts hub in a space that is already important to the community.
The eye-catching building is well-suited to host a variety of activities and events. It is located near educational resources like the Historic Reserve and the Downtown Arts District, offering opportunities for community partnerships and space for an arts ecosystem to flourish.
Visit the arts hub
Starting July 5, the arts hub building will be open for limited community use. An interest form will be available on this webpage to inquire about availability.
The building can provide space for community meetings, classes, workshops and rehearsals that support arts and culture in Vancouver. In its current condition, there is an occupancy limit of 49 people.
Get a sneak peek inside the building and enjoy performances from Vancouver Arts & Music Festival artists at our July 5 First Friday event.
Initial activation plan
The building on Mill Plain Blvd. was originally opened in 1963. A recent assessment identified several improvements and upgrades that are needed before the building can welcome large groups of people. However, it can safely open to smaller groups on a scheduled basis while the City is working on the necessary building changes.
The City has contracted local non-profit theARTScentered to develop and manage an initial activation plan for the Vancouver arts hub. There are limitations on the types of events and activities the space can provide in its current condition. However, this is still an exciting opportunity to test a proof of concept for the arts hub, begin building relationships with artists, and gain a better understanding of the community’s practical needs for a space that can support artistic creation and collaboration.
About the arts hub
With feedback from arts organizations, local galleries and artists of all ages and disciplines, we created a concept for a flexible arts hub that will serve as a gathering space where people can create and learn together.
The Vancouver Culture, Arts and Heritage Commission is working with staff from the City’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services department to re-design the interior of the building and create sustainable options for managing, operating and financing the Vancouver arts hub.
A wide range of perspectives and ideas are needed to help shape the future of the Vancouver arts hub. Visit the project webpage and subscribe to the mailing list to learn how you can join us in building this new creative community space together.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Vancouver arts hub?
The vision gives the historic Vancouver Community Library building (1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd.) new purpose as a modern hub for creativity, learning and sharing through the arts. The Vancouver arts hub will create a home for arts and culture that invites the entire community to gather, explore and participate in the transformative power of artistic and cultural expression. Repurposing the iconic building is a smart investment that will support and grow Vancouver’s creative economy. Learn more and get involved by visiting our project webpage.
What is the initial activation plan?
The City has contracted local non-profit theARTScentered to develop and manage an initial activation plan for the Vancouver arts hub. This is an exciting opportunity to provide space to test a proof of concept for the arts hub, begin building relationships with artists, and gain a better understanding of the community’s practical needs for a space that can support artistic creation and collaboration.
Is the building open to the public?
A recent assessment identified several improvements and upgrades that are needed before the building can welcome large groups of people. However, it can safely open to smaller groups on a scheduled basis while the City is working on the necessary building changes.
How can the building be used now?
Currently, we can provide space for meetings, classes and rehearsals with up to 49 people in the building. In addition to restrooms, there is a simple meeting space with a conference table and chairs; open rooms with chairs for classes or workshops; and a dance and movement rehearsal space with a floating dance floor and Marley surface.
How much does it cost to use the arts hub building?
During the initial activation we are taking a “radical hospitality” approach for building use, which means the cost is determined by what is feasible for each organization and will be set in conversation with theARTScentered. During this time, we believe it is important to work with and learn from artists of all backgrounds and experiences to help shape and inform the future of the arts hub. We don’t want finances to be a barrier to access.
How do I reserve space at the arts hub building?
An online interest form will be available starting July 5.
Are there other ways I can be part of creating the arts hub in the future?
A wide range of perspectives and ideas are needed to help shape the future of the Vancouver arts hub. Visit the project webpage and subscribe to the mailing list to be notified about surveys, community engagement opportunities and special events.