The Art of Montreal

I love the idea of promoting public art and "wow" architecture a la Chicago or Shanghai for Montreal that already has a world reputation for its European flare as does Quebec City.

How can Lachine be part of the spinoff ? We already own some excellent sculpture. Could a piece of it be installed on a widened central strip down the middle of 32nd Avenue just south of the 20 at the entrance to the city ? The theme of boats, canoes or the fur trade might be appropriate. Imagine David Moore's " Coureur des bois legs " parading down the street with a view of those " Flames " in the distance.

Poor old Notre Dame St. might become " La ruelle des artists " like the " Street of the Alchemists " in Prague. We could encourage artists and musicians to have their studios, workshops, design centres and boutiques there. Maybe even make it a pedestrian mall. Housing is cheap in the area, restos and cafes abound, parks, a colourful market with interesting people not to mention a spectacular church full of original art nouveau works and one of the best musical traditions in Montreal. Come to think of it the church should be the focal point ,somehow linked to La ruelle des Artistes. We have some delightful old houses in the old part of Lachine that might be highlighted to connect the dots..like a walking tour. Vercheres has done that with similar geography to Lachine. Parc des Rapides in Lasalle has used art nouveau benches, picnic tables and railings to give an artistic touch to their renovated waterfront with great success.

Isnt the mayor thinking of a tram from Le Vieux Montreal to La Vieux Lachine along with boat service on the canal ? Lets make the trip worth it !! I hear music....

some musings from Chickadee.