Canada Pavilion Construction Update (via archiCentral) for Expo 2010 in Shanghai, China is going to cost a cool $45mil.

The design for the Canada Pavilion at Expo 2010 is now finalized.  The design approach, which has an open air public space as its center piece, was first unveiled in January 2008.  Over the past year, the design, created by Cirque du Soleil, has evolved through adjustments and refinements.

Living walls or not, the $45mil for a temporary structure can absolutely be put to better use with the severely underfunded social and arts programs that have been cut over the years. Who approved this? The Cirque du Soleil is very successful but our essential arts and social programs could use the funds. Although they will be showcasing Canadian talent I know that I will never, and undoubtably those within my six degrees of separation, in my lifetime see $45 million dollars worth of programming and funds for me to survive as an artist or designer.

www.expo2010canada.gc.ca