NaAC Campus Development
An accessible arts learning campus – for Canadian artists with disabilities. And for the entire community.
The National accessArts Centre’s ambitious campus development project will transform the former site that houses the Scouts Hall into a community arts hub. Active arts training and creation during the day, alongside community events, art fairs, pop-up concerts and plays at night – this new campus will become a new cultural landmark for Calgary.
The Osten-Victor Inspiration Studio (MDCAH – new venue)
A New State-of-the-Art Creation and Learning Venue
The Osten-Victor Studio will be a transformative creative hub unlike any other. Designed with artists in mind, this flexible space features a 900 sq. ft. sprung floor, natural light from north-facing skylights, and the ability to shift seamlessly from an open, sunlit studio to a fully immersive black box environment. With operable walls, sliding doors, and billowing curtains, the studio can adapt for intimate rehearsals, large-scale productions, or concurrent ensemble work—all while maintaining accessibility and comfort for every body.
This highly versatile space is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including surround sound, retractable screens, live-streaming capabilities, and vertically adjustable lighting bars that bring professional-grade tools within reach of all artists. Overlooking the studio, a fully accessible control room supports training in sound and lighting production, making the Inspiration Studio not just a performance space, but a learning environment. From captivating performances and creative residencies to workshops and community events, its adaptability will make it an essential part of our cultural landscape.
The Gallery (MDCAH – new venue)
The Gallery will be a warm, inviting space that celebrates art in all its forms. Featuring exposed mass timber, CLT ceilings, hardwood floors, and a signature curving exhibition wall, it offers a striking yet flexible backdrop for creative expression. A 6m x 6m grid allows for endless reconfiguration, from open layouts for large-scale works to temporary partitions for curated exhibits. Glass vignettes showcase costumes, props, and sets, bringing collections out of storage and into the spotlight.
More than a gallery, this space transforms into an intimate venue for film screenings, live performances, lectures, and special events, complete with projection, sound, and lighting systems. Throughout the building, walls have been intentionally designed to maximize display opportunities, ensuring art is woven into every corner of the visitor experience.
The Visual Arts Studio
Trico Communities Centre – Scouts Hall
At the heart of the Trico Communities Arts Centre, our Visual Arts Studios are designed to inspire creativity and collaboration. Spacious enough to accommodate over 40 artists at once, the studios feature accessible tables, ergonomic seating, and meticulously organized storage so artists can easily pick up where they left off. A dedicated kiln room expands the possibilities for ceramic work, while a quiet room offers a calm retreat for focused projects—or transforms into a flexible space for music, audio, or film, opening doors to multidisciplinary creation.
Flooded with natural light and equipped to support the NaAC’s award-winning visual arts programs, these studios are more than workspaces—they’re vibrant hubs for artistic growth. Whether for painting, sculpture, ceramics, or mixed media, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to nurture creativity and community.
The Café (MDCAH – new venue)
The Café will be a welcoming community hub where every cup of coffee creates opportunity. Operated as a social enterprise, the café is dedicated to employing and empowering adults living with developmental disabilities, fostering inclusion and building a creative economy within the MDCAH. Visitors can enjoy a cappuccino or smoothie while knowing their purchase supports meaningful work and social impact.
More than a café, this space will be a vibrant gathering point—connecting people, sparking conversations, and complementing the artistic energy of the Centre. Whether you’re taking a break between events of meeting friends before a performance, Joe’s Table Café will offer a warm, inviting experience rooted in purpose and community.
This Project Will Change Lives
Explore some of the many benefits of investing in our new accessible arts learning campus.
A new global standard for Accessible, Barrier-Free Design
Every space – front-of-house to back-of-house – is designed to be barrier free, ensuring artists and audiences of all abilities can participate in all aspects of a creative experience.
One central location for all NaAC’s programs
No more logistical challenges of renting venues across the city to deliver multidisciplinary programs, and an increased capacity to support more artists in their learning journey.
A new community hub for Calgary
Perched along the Bow River and nestled in the vibrant community of West Hillhurst, this will be a safe, welcoming, active, and creative community hub that will benefit all Calgarians.
Artists First™
All of our venues are designed to support Canadian artists living with disabilities during NaAC’s primary programming hours, but will also provide much-needed creation and workshopping spaces for Calgary’s growing artist community.
Feel the Excitement
FAQs
Still have a question? Please reach out to js.ryu@accessarts.ca
Where is the new accessible arts campus located?
The new campus is located in the heart of West Hillhurst, with two facilities that will be developed to form the initial phase of the campus. The first is the former Scouts Hall (located at 2140 Brownsea Drive NW) that is being transformed into the Trico Communities Accessible Arts Centre. Adjacent to that (currently a parking lot) will be the new Multidisciplinary Disability Community Arts Hub (MDCAH). The total complex will have close to 30,000 square feet of developed space.
Will there be parking?
With the vast majority of our participants taking public transportation to access the NaAC’s programs, there will be limited parking on the campus site itself. Traffic studies indicate minimal impact on public parking that is available along Brownsea Drive.
When will the new campus be completed?
Our current, funding dependent, plan would see access to both facilities of our accessible arts campus beginning in 2027.
How do I donate?
Visit our Donate page to donate online. For major gifts, contact JS Ryu, President and CEO, at js.ryu@accessarts.ca.
Will I get a tax receipt?
Yes, the NaAC is a registered charity.