Main Street Home to New Work of Art
“Place of the White Rolling Sands” is the definition for the name Penetanguishene and it is now also the title of the newest public art piece on Main Street. On February 15, during the 72nd Winterama festivities, the Town of Penetanguishene will be unveiling a sculpture conceived by local artist Camille Myles. The public is invited to gather in front of 83 Main Street at 10 a.m. to see the work unveiled, which will be followed by the Winterama parade.
The creation of the public art piece was made possible through the Main Street Revitalization Grant from Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA). With the support of Council, Deputy Mayor Anita Dubeau spearheaded this project with a volunteer Committee. The Committee was responsible for selecting the work based on a public call for submissions.
“I am thrilled to see this project being unveiled to the public. The volunteer group dedicated their time to bring an art installation to the downtown and are especially pleased to bring Camille Myles idea to completion with the hard work of local business Lafontaine Iron Werks” said Deputy Mayor Anita Dubeau.
“The Town has been fortunate to receive funding from the Province of Ontario to complement the recent updates to Main Street with this lovely piece of art. We are thankful for the opportunity to continue to showcase Penetanguishene’s and areas artistic community and to unveil this public art piece.” said Mayor Doug Leroux.
It’s the Town’s belief that public art enriches the daily life of residents and visitors while complementing the natural assets of our town. Public Art has the ability to inspire, ignite, awaken and animate. It can enrich and connect a community and add or enhance a “sense of place” in a symbolic or creative way that reveals an aspect of the social, natural, physical or historical context of the location. Public Art is also recognized both nationally and internationally as a significant tool for building economic development and tourism by making destinations for visitors and residents.
A plaque to accompany the sculpture will be installed in the spring, with text in English, French, Anishinaabemowin, Michif and Huron-Wendat.