The WKP Kennedy Gallery at North Bay’s Capitol Centre is reopening to the public tonight, Oct. 8, with a free grand opening gala running from 6 to 9 p.m.
The WKP Keedy Gallery is entering a new era, and everyone is invited to the grand opening taking place this evening, October 8, from 6 to 9 p.m.
The opening gala celebrates a redesign of the gallery space, a project which has been underway since July. After all that work, the new gallery is open again, and attendees can enjoy an exhibit of pieces from the gallery’s permanent collection.
This morning, within the front foyer of the Capitol Centre, many gathered to announce tonight’s grand opening. Art supporters, community members, and local dignitaries came out to offer congratulations, give some speeches, and cut the ribbon to open the space.
“This is a really big moment for the Capitol Centre and the WKP Kennedy Gallery,” enthused Katina Connolly, the Capitol Centre’s executive director. “It’s been a process, but we’re very happy with where we’ve come today.”
She mentioned plans have been underway since around 2021, and Capitol Centre staff began applying for grants in 2024. Federal and provincial funding covered 90 per cent of the renovation costs, “so when we say we could not have done this without government support, it is no exaggeration.”
The federal government, through the Department of Canadian Heritage, provided just over $170,00 for the project, with the province contributing just under $424,000.
Stu Campaigne, speaking on behalf of Nipissing-Timiskaming MP Pauline Rochefort, said, “The WKP Kennedy Gallery is one of North Bay’s most important cultural spaces, […] and that is why investments in spaces like this matter.”
“The renovations that have been done here are improving the gallery’s accessibility, functionality, and flexibility,” Campaigne continued. “They have created a more welcoming space for visitors, strengthened exhibition facilities, and improved access to the gallery’s permanent collection. This project is an investment in artists, audiences, and the future of arts and culture in our region.”
Alexa Bouchard, speaking on behalf of Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing, congratulated everyone on the opening of the new space and talked about the importance of arts and culture to the economy. “Ontario is proud to have invested in the gallery’s renovation through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation. Art galleries in Ontario help build vibrant communities by promoting local talent and spurring economic growth.”
Gallery director and curator, Jennifer Allison, was thrilled to be opening the doors to the new space. “We’re incredibly excited to welcome our community back to the WKP Kennedy Gallery and begin filling this beautiful space with art, exhibitions, and creative programming once again.”
Tonight, you can enjoy the newly designed gallery for yourself, beginning at 6 p.m. Pieces from the gallery’s permanent collection will be on display for the gala, and complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be provided courtesy of The Block Public House. A cash bar will be open as well. Admission is free.
The WKP Gallery is located within the Capitol Centre, located at 150 Main Street East, North Bay.