A New AGNS

Context
The redevelopment of the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia (AGNS) represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine a provincial cultural institution. With a mandate to create an inclusive, accessible, and visionary space, AGNS aimed to ensure the new gallery would reflect diverse community voices, contemporary architectural innovation, and sustainable design principles, while honoring Mi’kmaw ways of knowing.

Our Role
Colab was invited to lead the public engagement strategy and design process as part of a collaborative team that included architects, artists, and knowledge holders from Mi’kmaq, settler, and international perspectives. We conducted over 45 listening sessions with communities historically underrepresented in the gallery—including Mi’kmaq communities, African Nova Scotian organizations, 2SLGBTQIA+ leaders, neurodivergent individuals, artists with disabilities, youth, and newcomers. These sessions were focused on relationship-building and co-creation, directly informing both the building design and the intended use of interior and exterior spaces.

Outcome
The engagement process helped shape a gallery and institutional culture that is inclusive, rooted, and visionary. Design elements such as the eel-shaped form, cap-inspired entrance, and “People’s Gallery” plaza reflect community input, while sustainability features—like using the harbour as a heat sink and integrating solar energy—demonstrate environmental stewardship. More than a building, the new AGNS serves as a public invitation to a reimagined cultural experience, grounded in diverse perspectives, bold design, and collective belonging.

Project Status
As of 2022, the project has been paused by the provincial government. While construction and implementation are on hold, the insights, engagement processes, and design vision developed remain a valuable foundation for future planning and decision-making.