Strengthening arts and community: Revitalizing the Gas Station Arts Centre in Winnipeg's Osborne Village

The Government of Canada is investing $600,000 in the Gas Station Arts Centre project to help renovate an important arts performance space

WINNIPEG, MB, Feb. 20, 2026 /CNW/ - We are proud to invest in cultural gathering spaces that give artists the opportunity to take their first steps on stage. These emerging artists are powerful advocates for our culture and identity, helping our economy thrive and reinforcing the vitality of our communities.

Today, Madeleine Chenette, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, is pleased to announce $600,000 in funding for the Gas Station Arts Centre renovation project. She made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages. 

A dynamic organization in Winnipeg's cultural landscape, the Gas Station Arts Centre has already begun a multi-year redevelopment project, including significant upgrades to the facility: an expanded lobby, fully modernized gender-neutral washrooms and new specialized equipment. With a complete revitalization of the courtyard, including installing permanent fencing, the project will significantly enhance the outdoor performance space and upgrade one of Winnipeg's most historic and vibrant corners. Federal funding was provided through Canadian Heritage's Canada Cultural Spaces Fund.

Quotes

"Strong communities make a strong Canada. By supporting the revitalization of local theatre spaces, we strengthen our local economy, enrich our community and celebrate our identity--fostering connection and creativity so our communities can thrive."

--The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages

"The revitalization of the Gas Station Arts Centre doesn't just strengthen a building, but the entire cultural ecosystem of Winnipeg's iconic Osborne Village. A renovated and modernized theatre will dramatically improve the experience for artists and audiences. This welcoming and accessible space will now be able to better serve the community for generations to come."

--Madeleine Chenette, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages

"We are thrilled with the Government of Canada's support through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund for our gem of a theatre in Osborne Village. As we evolve with a variety of performances, our artists and patrons are so excited about the changes that have and continue to happen to make the area an active and enjoyable experience."

--Nick Kowalchuk, Executive Director, Gas Station Arts Centre

Quick Facts

Since 1983, the Gas Station Arts Centre has championed multi-disciplinary artistic development through mentorship, production and co-production. The Centre provides the highest quality facilities, equipment, services and guidance to artists regardless of their discipline or career experience.

The Canada Cultural Spaces Fund helps improve the conditions that support innovation in the arts, heritage and creative communities. The Fund supports renovation projects, the acquisition of specialized equipment, and the planning and design of feasibility studies related to arts and heritage cultural spaces.

Associated Links

Canada Cultural Spaces Fund

Gas Station Arts Centre

SOURCE Canadian Heritage

Contacts: For more information (media only), please contact: Hermine Landry, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, [email protected]; Media Relations, Canadian Heritage, [email protected]