Gunnison Arts Center
A Facelift for the Old Lady
A Proposal to Better Utilize Space in the Building funded by the Sale of the Lots
A. Gallery-Theater
$60,000
This is a modification of the plan we developed in late 2008 when Paul was Director. That plan called for
creating a large space where the Gallery-Theater currently is, building a permanent stage area and using
movable seating when performances are scheduled. The seating would be stored when the space was
needed for exhibits. Major costs for that plan included asbestos removal, flooring, and installation of a
large structural beam to allow removal of the posts in the center of the room.
The new proposal also calls for creating a large space where the Gallery-Theater currently is, to create a
multi-use space to accommodate performing arts, dance classes and dances, gallery exhibitions, the Gala
and other special events, meetings, lectures and be available as rental space.
This plan varies from the original in several ways. Major costs will be reduced by living with, or working
around, the asbestos and the center posts. Improvements include portable stage and seating, a multipurpose floor suitable for dance, and creation of an interior grid, independent of the ceiling (asbestos) for
lighting, banners, exhibits, etc.
A working model for use of a space like this is the Glenwood Springs Arts Center.
B.
Relocate Visual Arts Classroom
$3,000
The current Visual Arts classroom in the South Wing Studios is proposed for relocation to the upper level
of the historic building. The Visual Arts classroom moves into the east costume storage room and the
lobby area at the top of the old stairway. Also, the restroom at the top of the stairs is included, with the
stool removed and a utility sink installed.
Option: relocate Visual Arts to the board meeting room, and use the east costume room and lobby at top
of stairs for meetings.
C.
Finish West Studio Space
$15,000
The West Studio Space (current Visual Arts classroom) is finished into a space suitable to lease. This
would require a dividing wall from the Clay Center, soundproof ceiling, and new doors/windows facing the
Courtyard. There are two options for its use—lease to an artist or a professional, or utilize it as the GAC
Gift Shop managed on a co-op basis.
D. Music Studio
$2,000
Create a music studio for classes, lessons, etc. in the west costume room in the upper level of the historic
building.
E.
Dance Lobby/Green Room
$2,000
Create storage lockers, shelving, etc. to store costumes.
F.
Costume Storage
$0
Relocate to basement or off-site storage.
Total cost:
$82,000