A warm welcome three decades ago has led to a $2.8-million donation to the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria to help pay for an expansion at its 1040 Moss St. property.
“He felt that this house was a home for him, that it was home for artists,” said Tupper, who met with Thorn in 2014 and heard that he wanted to leave a legacy to the gallery.Thorn, who was in poor health, made the donation in memory of his wife, Jacqueline, who predeceased him. He said in 2014 that he hoped it would inspire others to donate. At that time, it was estimated the donation would be $2.5 million.
Plans call for the historic Spencer Mansion to stand separately from the new construction. The current addition with its exhibition space is attached to the mansion.Construction costs are estimated at slightly more than $25 million, said Godfrey Archbold, a gallery board member who is involved in the fundraising.
The gallery has applied to the federal government in the hope that it will contribute between $7 million and $10 million, he said.