By Julie Gauthier
The National Capital Commission is ready to breathe new life into a section of the Plaza Bridge, a downtown area by the Parliament Buildings now known for graffiti and vandalism.
But although the graffiti may disappear, the hope is that the art won’t.
The NCC is hoping to set up an artists’ colony in the recently renovated area, as early as next summer.
The colony could be a venue for painters and craftspeople, and possibly even performance artists.
“I am hoping it might turn out like an ‘avenue du trésor,’ like in Montreal,” says Gerald Lajeunesse, chief landscape architect for the NCC.
He hopes to have programming begin as early as next summer.
“The NCC would like to see outdoor programming to start, like outdoor concerts. We would like to accommodate events in the area.”
He cites the annual Ottawa Tulip Festival as a possible example.
Ottawa visual artist Adrian Göllner agrees it’s an intriguing concept.
He used to work out of a studio on Rideau Street, and noticed there weren’t many art studios in the area.
But while Göllner calls the idea well-intended, he fears a possible lack of interest among local artists.
“Depending on the actual idea, it might be difficult. Some artists are very independent,” he says, referring to the possible commercialization of the art.
But, he adds that pedestrian traffic would have a positive effect on the area.
“It is a well-intended idea, and at its best, things could be set up and profited to the public. It could be fantastic.”
Lajeunesse says the project would hopefully deter vandals who “tag” the walls with graffiti, and drive away the drug problems long associated with the area.
The renovations to the Plaza Bridge started in November of 1997, at a cost of about $20 million. They were part of a project to redevelop Confederation Boulevard, jointly funded by the NCC, the region, and Parks Canada.
The renovation work is not quite complete, says Lajeunesse.
A 6,000-square-foot. storage space next to the west arch of the bridge is a possible site for a bistro or café.
Lajeunesse says that one of the uses of the bridge is to act as a connector from Sparks Street to the Byward Market, and he hopes this will attract people.
“The point isn’t to make money, but to have people linger in the area,” says Lajeunesse. “If they don’t stay, this is when the problems come back.”