TAMRMS#: B06
6.2
REQUEST FOR DECISION
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Deaccession of Father Lacombe Relief Sculpture
Presented by Andrea Bowes, Public Art Associate and Registrar, Community Services
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RECOMMENDED MOTION(S)
recommendation
That the Arts Development Advisory Committee recommends to Administration that:
Administration deaccession the Father Lacombe relief sculpture (093) from the City’s Public Art Collection and transfer it to the Arts and Heritage Foundation of St. Albert, Musée Heritage Museum.
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SUMMARY
As a historic component of St. Albert’s built heritage, this sculpture is more appropriately housed in an institution that can interpret it within its historical context. The sculpture has not been publicly displayed since 2009 and will not be installed, as it does not align with C-CS-25 Public Art Policy. However, its preservation within a heritage-focused collection ensures its continued relevance and educational value.
Administration will deaccession the relief from the City’s Public Art Collection and transfer it to the St. Albert Arts and Heritage Foundation, Musée Heritage Museum collection.
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
This work was located in the Old City Hall and Library building. It was removed in 1982 prior to the demolition of the building.
Documentation shows that this work has not been displayed since 2009 and its display history between 1982 and 2009 is unknown. The artwork was specifically designed for the City Hall building and is not easily adaptable for display in other public spaces or civic facilities. It holds significance as part of St. Albert’s built heritage and is therefore better suited in an Institution that can interpret its historical importance within the broader context of the City’s development.
Deaccessioning best practice
From C-CS-25 Public Art Policy:
Administration shall:
h) Ensure that Deaccessioning and Disposition of artworks follow the standard collection management practice to remove artworks from the Public Art Collection at the end of their lifecycle, based on their curatorial importance, or based on conditions. Industry best practices shall be followed.
STAKEHOLDER COMMUNICATIONS OR ENGAGEMENT
Administration and St. Albert Arts and Heritage Foundation (AHF), through the Musée Heritage Museum, have engaged in discussions regarding the historical significance of this relief. As the City’s designated partner responsible for the stewardship of historical and cultural artifacts, resources, and archives, the AHF has committed to accepting the mural into its collection. This decision reflects a shared commitment to preserving the work within the community for the educational benefit of future generations.
IMPACTS OF RECOMMENDATION(S)
Financial:
The transfer of the artwork to AHF will result in no net financial impact on the City. As AHF is already funded through an existing partnership agreement to steward the City’s historical and cultural assets, the costs associated with storage, conservation, and interpretation will be absorbed within that framework. This approach ensures responsible stewardship without creating additional financial burden.
Compliance & Legal:
C-CS-25 Public Art Policy Section 6, Deaccessioning
Program or Service:
Removal of artwork from the City’s Public Art Collection.
Organizational:
Administration would work with AHF to transfer the artwork to Musée Heritage Museum.
Risks
This artwork has been in storage since 2009 and, during that time, has not contributed to public education or community knowledge. Storing a piece indefinitely without interpretation or access presents a risk of cultural loss. Transferring the artwork to a collection dedicated to celebrating St. Albert’s history and educating the public gives it renewed purpose and value, ensuring it can once again contribute meaningfully to our shared heritage.
ALIGNMENT TO PRIORITIES IN COUNCIL’S STRATEGIC PLAN
None at this time
ALIGNMENT TO LEVELS OF SERVICE DELIVERY
City of St Albert Services and Service Levels Inventory
B.6 Funding Partnerships, B.6.1 Cultural Partnerships, B.6.1.a Arts and Heritage Foundation:
The City's partnership agreement with the AHF includes:
• Operating, managing, and ensuring stewardship of the City's historical and cultural artifacts, historical resources and archives.
• The provision of diverse and relevant arts and heritage registered and drop-in programs, including the animation of heritage sites and locations around the community.
G.1 Asset Management, G.1.5.a Public Art Collection:
Inspect, assess, and maintain the City of St. Albert’s permanent art collection.
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Report Date: September 15, 2025
Author(s): Andrea Bowes
Department: Community Services
Department Director: Elizabeth Budd
Managing Director: Dinu Alex
Chief Administrative Officer: Bill Fletcher