Public art commissions awarded for new Community Centre
May 7, 2010
Strathcona County is pleased to announce the commissioning of two community art pieces for the new Community Centre.
“Our goal is to create a welcoming environment for residents to gather together to learn, celebrate and enjoy a variety of cultural events and activities in the Community Centre,” says Mayor Cathy Olesen. “These commissions will enhance that inviting and inspiring atmosphere.”
Artist Alex Janvier is commissioned to create an art installation on the balcony fronts of the Strathcona County Library. Janvier’s paintings are often inspired by nature. A professional artist for several decades, he is the same artist who painted the murals on the spiral staircase in County Hall in 1975. Janvier is from Cold Lake First Nations in Alberta.
Artist Manola Borrajo-Giner is commissioned to create a large-scale original glass wall to greet visitors at the top of the stairway in the library. This installation, designed to integrate art within the library’s new landscape, aims to evoke a strong sense of place as well as a memorable experience for visitors. Borrajo-Giner has a unique ability to create a common landscape in an unexpected way using bold, rich colours and textures.
“Integrating art commissions of this calibre into the architecture of the Community Centre is very exciting,” adds Mayor Olesen. “This art, the first two major pieces for the building, will add to the vibrancy of this community-gathering space.”
Strathcona County called on a number of professionals—well-known artists, an architect, a gallery curator and an interior designer—to adjudicate the submissions.
Residents can find information on public art commissions for the new Community Centre at www.strathcona.ca/culture.
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Contacts:
Mayor Cathy Olesen, 780-464-8000
Teresa Koslo, Recreation, Parks and Culture, 780-464-8489
Last updated: Friday, May 07, 2010
Page ID: 5721