Prince Arthur’s Landing has become a destination spot for tourists and city residents alike, and it’s easy to see why. It is a place where past and future meet, where gourmet dining shakes hands with artisanal beer; where a nostalgic train station watches over cutting-edge condos. There’s the Spirit Garden and Mariner’s Hall, walking paths and talking towers and water as far as the eye can see. It’s a contrast of elements and in the heart of it all is an odd brick building with interesting architecture – columns and glass, wood and steel. This is the Baggage Building Arts Centre (BBAC) and it is perhaps the most delightful, and most overlooked, destination of them all.
I was introduced to the BBAC a few years ago during a writing event and have had the privilege to go back many times since. However, sitting down with operators Angie Jensen and Lorraine Cull, I quickly realized that my experiences were only the tip of a vast cultural iceberg. In the few years since its opening, the BBAC has become a literal hub for all things artistic in the city, and is quickly growing into its long and unusual name.
“The mandate was originally for a Creative Arts Council to be housed in this building,” says Jensen. “The city had a vision to foster creativity and create a cultural/artistic hub, not just the Waterfront, but for all of Thunder Bay. Lorraine and I had an interest keeping arts alive in the downtown PA core. People thought we were crazy but we had a vision, so we put in a proposal.”
Jensen shrugs, smiles a huge smile. “It was accepted.”
Built in 1905, the BBAC was originally the Freight/Customs Office for the Port Arthur CP Train Station. It was mistakenly referred to as the Baggage Building and the name stuck. For many years it was the home of Lakehead Visual Arts, but after a century of use, it began to show its age and when the waterfront underwent its extensive renovation in 2010-11, the city planners knew that somehow, someway, the name needed to honour its history. It was more than just a nod to the past – it was both foundation and springboard on which to build something new. When it opened in June 2012, it became the Baggage Building Arts Centre, combining both past and future purposes.
The architecture is elemental, designed by award-winning firm Brook/McIlroy and combines sleek, modern lines with heritage stone. You can see the original brickwork as you head up to the Gift Gallery and frosted glass runs at right angles to oiled pine. The original vault from 1905 stores props and arts supplies now, rather than records or currency, and the ceiling tiles hail back to the turn of the last century. Every corner is fascinating for me as an artist, and the elemental contrasts work to create a kinetic energy that runs through the space.
Also running through the space are children, thanks to the many programs offered by staff and volunteers. Almost every day of the week there is a different schedule or group, from Connect the Dots’ “Roots & Branches Forest School” to Puppet-making workshops and theater, everyone is welcome to plug in and experience the various creative programs that the BBAC has to offer.
A fully-functioning pottery studio also runs out of the BBAC’s main level. Part of the original vision, the space was built to include electric and kick wheels, along with a working kiln. Tanis Webster and Fritz Lehmberg run classes for young to old and from beginner to advanced. There are also open studio sessions where any potter is welcome to come and throw a pot or two.
In honour of its artistic mandate, the BBAC functions as an urban gallery, with three distinct spaces that can host exhibitions inside the building. All spaces are open to the public and an exhibit can expect to see a few hundred to a few thousand visitors, depending on the season.
“I only wish we had more room to display art,” says Jensen with a grin. “Walls were sacrificed in the design and for windows with that unique view. It’s worth it, but still I’d love a few more walls.”
The Gift Gallery is a big draw as well. Located on the second floor, it is home to some of Thunder Bay’s most talented artists. From watercolour paintings to copper jewellery, from CDs to knitted toques, the BBAC offers local artists a venue to sell their wares in a permanent, professional environment. It was a natural progression for Jensen and Cull who also run the Painted Turtle Art Shop. Because of their experience, connections and dedication, the BBAC Gift Gallery is now one of the most successful Arts and Crafts stores in Thunder Bay.
“We have very high quality work displayed here,” says Cull. “Even the Hometown Hockey folks were really impressed. One reporter said she wished she’d had more room in her suitcase!”
The BBAC is really all about connecting people and resources in the city’s dynamic arts community. Space is available to rent, whether for an afternoon, evening or longer. Spooktacular, Nanowrimo, the Bizare Bazzare, the Waterfront Arts Sale and Geekfest are just a few of the community-driven events that take place here. At any given time, there will be musicians, knitters, forgers, spinners, weavers, puppeteers, authors and painters, all working their crafts and sharing this remarkable resource. Both Jensen and Cull know that they are just scratching the surface of what can be done with this historic yet modern building.
“We even have two wonderful outdoor spaces,” said Jensen during my tour. “One beside and the other behind.”
I agree. The possibilities are endless.
My imagination is still running wild after my tour and even now, I am thinking of all the events my various community groups could hold at the BBAC. Creative, kinetic and filled with wonder and natural delight, the Baggage Building Arts Centre lives up to its name, reaching the new waterfront and bringing its history along for the ride.
For information on classes, events or booking the BBAC, contact Angie Jensen or Lorraine Cull at artscentre@thunderbay.ca.
