Genesis of the cultural collaboration between Melcor Developments and the City of Spruce Grove

by Ralph Young

Melcor Developments became involved in the cultural scene of Spruce Grove as a result of discussions between the mayor of the time, George Cuff, and myself when I was vice-president of Melcor Developments.

It started in 1978, with Melcor's wanting to commemorate its 10th anniversary of development in the Towns of Spruce Grove and Leduc. Melcor hosted a dinner at the Westin Hotel for the town councils, staff, and customers, as well as Melcor employees and other individuals involved in the development process.

Melcor commissioned local Edmonton artist, Meredith Evans, to paint a scene of each community for presentation to the councils to preserve some aspect of local history. Melcor also decided to donate $10,000 to each community to assist with arts and cultural projects.

The Town of Spruce Grove chose to channel their $10,000 through the Allied Arts Council, which was looking for a way to play a larger role in the cultural life of the community. The Allied Arts Council established an annual juried art show to encourage local artists. An important component of the show was a sale of the artworks entered in the competition, and each year Spruce Grove acquired several pieces of art with the funding provided by Melcor Developments.

Over the past twenty years, Melcor has continued to add to the funds for the art acquisition, and in July 2000, the City officially named its collection the Melcor Developments Municipal Art Collection of Spruce Grove.

We have been very proud to be associated with this program and we commend Council for making use of the funds very prudently and wisely. The City of Spruce Grove and its citizens are the beneficiaries of a fine collection of beautiful art.

Ralph Young
President
Melcor Developments Ltd.