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Knox Hall, Night Owl owners honoured by Sudbury Arts Council

Award presented in memory of late Sudbury architect and artist Oryst Sawchuk
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The owners of Knox Hall and The Night Owl, Liana Bacon and Dan Guillemette, are being honoured for their contributions to the city’s art scene by the Sudbury Arts Council. Photo by Don Johnston.

The owners of Knox Hall and The Night Owl, Liana Bacon and Dan Guillemette, are being honoured for their contributions to the city’s art scene by the Sudbury Arts Council.

The enterprising couple received the Oryst Sawchuk Award at the arts council’s annual general meeting Nov. 27.

“Sudbury needs more Lianas and Dans,” said Vicki Gilhula, the arts council’s secretary. 

“They saw potential in an old church and had the vision to turn it into a performance centre, instead of a parking lot, giving Sudbury audiences a chance to see and hear some outstanding Canadian and local musicians.”

Bacon and Guillemette also invested in The Night Owl Speakeasy and Books and Beans at 158 Elgin St.

The Night Owl is a captivating place to enjoy cocktails and good food. Every Thursday, there are talented jazz musicians playing. Books and Beans is an artsy downtown café which exhibits art and sells books by local writers.

The couple were presented with a Sawchuk print of the 158 Elgin St. building (circa 2000) which was home to Northern Life newspaper for more than 40 years.

“Liana and Dan are investing in the future of downtown Sudbury, something Oryst would have applauded,” said Gilhula, who was the late architect and artist’s partner. 

Previous winners of the Oryst Sawchuk Award are Stephane Gauthier, Linda Cartier, Judi Straughan, Allan Walsh and Ralph McIntosh. The award honours people who have made major contributions to Sudbury’s art scene.

At the arts council’s annual meeting, at the Sudbury Indie Cinema, the non-profit organization, announced its plans to honour 50 people who have made a difference in the arts during the past 50 years. Sudbury Arts Council is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024. 

Go to sudburyartscouncil.ca to nominate anyone from the last 50 years who has made a significant contribution to the arts.



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