Former art teacher pushes for construction of Joni Mitchell centre in Saskatoon

Canadian Press
June 1, 2005

SASKATOON (CP) - A group of Saskatoon residents is pushing for construction of a centre dedicated to the musical career of Saskatchewan-born recording artist and painter Joni Mitchell.

The Joni Mitchell Discovery Centre would feature mementoes, albums and photographs in a building at a new riverfront development called River Landing.

Among the supporters are Bob Hinitt, who taught French and art to Mitchell - then Roberta Joan Anderson - at Aden Bowman Collegiate from 1958 to '62.

He called her "the girl with the flaxen hair," and was immediately struck by her potential.

"Artistically, I could see she was very talented."

Hinitt said he's baffled by mixed messages from Saskatoon city council and a few letters to the editor questioning whether Mitchell is worthy of a centre.

"It's tantamount to me to say, What have William Shakespeare, Leonardo da Vinci and Mozart done? In 400 years, like Shakespeare, she could be as famous," Hinitt said.

He remains in touch with Mitchell and sat with her at a recent centennial gala where she performed before the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh.

The City of Saskatoon has called for expressions of interest in building a "destination centre" around Persephone Theatre's new River Landing home, with a June 15 closing date.

At least two councillors are supportive of the Joni Mitchell Centre, but others have raised concerns about whether the singer is interested in the idea or whether it would hinder the Mendel Art Gallery's plans to develop a cafe featuring Mitchell's artwork.

Mitchell herself has expressed tentative interest in the project through a letter from her agent to Mayor Don Atchison. However, the letter said Mitchell wants to ensure any project with her name on it is financially feasible before endorsing it.