Artists invited to dream big for 150

By Jaiden Doyle

At least two Canadian artists will be given the chance to “Dream” if they’re chosen by the federal Department of Canadian Heritage to create a new interactive art installation on the Portage Bridge Plaza.

Canadian Heritage is accepting proposals from artists and architects for a $35,000 interactive art installation that will be exhibited on a platform at the south end of the Portage Bridge, which crosses the Ottawa River and the Ontario-Quebec boundary at the west end of Wellington Street in Centretown.

The theme for the proposed piece is “Dream”, and according to Canadian Heritage, “it will highlight the Canadian arts scene and the great creativity and innovation of Canadians. It will become a symbol that represents our history, our collective memory and the multiple identities that have shaped our country since its creation.”

The chosen piece of art will be placed at a site overlooking Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River. According to the federal government, the project is part of the broader plan to reanimate Canada’s many interprovincial borders just in time for this year’s 150th anniversary of Confederation.

The site is located above two outdoor public art galleries located in pedestrian tunnels. It will also help to link the new art piece with another public art installation currently installed at the end of the bridge on the Quebec side,” said Huneaulta.

Canadian Heritage spokesperson Natalie Huneaulta said the location was selected for a number of reasons. “This federal land, managed by the National Capital Commission, is ideal to present public artwork as it is accessible via pedestrian walkway and, a bike path.

This art instillation also part of a bigger project called Art in the Capital, which showcases art created by Canadian artists and on display in the capital region. Art in the Capital was launched in July 2016 and runs until May 2018.

The “Dream” project, however, will be unveiled in May and be displayed until March 2018. The chosen artist will have a budget of $35,000 to make the envisioned installation come to life.

According to Canadian Heritage, the winning work, “selected by a jury of experts, must include interactive elements to invite the participation of the public under the theme Dream.”

Though the dream theme seems fairly broad, Canadian Heritage is recommending that artists and architects reimagine and “revisit this theme, to surprise and push boundaries, playing with size and scale.”

Local artist Alexis Murillo said she thinks this is a great opportunity for artists on home soil.

“It’s great that they let artists participate in historical work. For local artists it allows us to expand our skills and makes a statement for all of us, and how art is an important historical development,” said Murillo.

The winning design will be chosen by Feb. 27, with the installation scheduled for completion in May.