Local Art is Changing the Face of Pugwash
The Open Air Gallery is changing the face of Pugwash with seven exciting installations already on view throughout the village.
The Open Air Gallery is a project already two years in the making by Pugwash Communities in Bloom (CiB). It brings the work of local artists into prominent public view while adding to the depth and draw of the community for residents and visitors alike.
The seven pieces mounted on the facades of local buildings are just the first of many to be installed over the next few years.
Described in a press release by CiB, “They are big and beautiful, adding to Pugwash’s commitment to supporting and celebrating the arts and expanding our heritage and cultural footprint.”
The artists and their subjects were selected by an independent jury, including Joy Laking, Harry Moore, and David Richard.
The current installations are located at:
- The old fire hall facing the COOP - “Amherst Shore Park” by Fred Horton
- Library at the old train station - “Ross Brothers” by Louise Cloutier
- Side of the Baptist Church on Durham Street - “Egalite” by Vivian Godfree
- Salt Mine shaft, at the Water Street Terminal - “Spend Time with Me” by Jenn Houghtaling (shown in the photo L to R - Marine Terminal Manager Jody Trenholm, and installers Chuck Graham and Richard Dittami)
- Side of Basic Spirit off Water St. - “September Marsh” by Cathy Dalton
- Side of O’Briens PharmaChoice on Prince Albert St. - “The Weight of the Sky” by Norene Smiley
- Side of Montys facing Eaton Park - “Harbourfest” by Donna Hutchinson
The official launch will be held in May or June of 2021, hopefully with more installations, signage, an informative website, artist presentations, and supporting print material for self-guided walks.
The release says, “Communities in Bloom is very proud to be able to bring this initiative to our community. We hope it will grow to join the Jean Wallace Gallery at PDHS (Pugwash Highschool), the Heritage Panels, the Thinkers Lodge, and the Peace Hall as landmarks, contributing to tourism and pride in our village.”
While the project was supported by a $10,000 grant from the Nova Scotia Beautification and Streetscaping Program, numerous volunteers and donors added to the scope of the gallery with an estimated total cost close to $30,000.
Further expansion and enhancement of the program will require additional investment. If you are interested in supporting this project, contact Communities in Bloom (Helen 902-243-2762 or Maureen 902-243-3454).
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