History

About

The Crowsnest Pass Allied Arts Association (CNPAAA) was initiated in 1986 to provide exhibitions to the community. In 1991, the Art Gallery moved into the Frank Community Hall and was awarded Public Gallery status by the Alberta Foundation for the Arts in 1995. The Crowsnest Pass Public Art Gallery continues to be managed by the Crowsnest Pass Allied Arts Association, a charitable, not for profit organization with the mission to provide and promote education in the arts for all people.The Art Gallery provides rotational monthly exhibitions of local, provincial and national art as well as organizing art exhibits at the Stone’s Throw Café in Blairmore. To promote education in the arts, the Gallery offers art programs for adults and youth throughout the year. The Gallery also hosts many special events including concerts, musical performances and theatre performances. In the Gallery Gift Shop, visitors can purchase a wide variety of unique products including art works, pottery, art cards and books from over 50 local and area artists.

The Art Gallery continues to be located in the Frank Community Hall, a building with a significant historical role in the community. It was built in the new business district of Frank in 1914 for the Frank Wine and Spirit Company. By 1917 it was used as a dancehall, then it was the home of the Frank School from 1921 to 1957. Later, it became the village office and then the Frank Community Centre, a gathering place for social and family events. It seems fitting that the building continues to be used as a public gathering space in our community.

Funders and Supporters
The Crowsnest Pass Allied Arts Association operates on grants, program revenue, fundraising activities and donations. CNPAAA gratefully acknowledges the ongoing funding received from Alberta Foundation for the Arts, the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass and Service Canada.
Annual fundraising events including M.Arty’s Market and Chili Bowl Festival support the work of the CNPAAA. In addition, our activities would not be possible without the significant contribution made by our many volunteers.

If you would like to help support arts and culture in Crowsnest Pass, please consider a donation to CNPAAA. Tax receipts will be provided for all donations over $20.00. Donate via e-transfer to cnpaaa@shaw.ca. Or follow the link below.