‘Something memorable’
Local artist heading major creative project for Montague
Island artist David Trimble has a grand image in mind for his latest project.
It’s easy to see understand why, really.
Consider first the physical size of the piece: an outdoor acrylic painting on metal measuring 14 feet by 60 feet.
Next, there is the weighty theme of the project, which is ‘Canada: past, present and future’.
Finally, Trimble anticipates roughly 300 people being drawn upon to take part in the ambitious $25,000 collaborative project, which is funded through the Canadian Heritage Legacy Fund.
“My expectations are astronomical for this piece,’’ says 48-year-old Trimble, who lives in the Kings County community of Cambridge.
“For me, it’s an opportunity of a lifetime.’’
A design team from all walks of life — accountant, high school student and historian, to name a few — will come up with the template by midJune.
Hundreds of people of varying age and artistic ability will find their way into Trimble’s studio over the next couple of months to recreate the massive image on 210 pieces of metal, each measuring two feet by two feet.
Trimble expects variations David Trimble of Cambridge, P.E.I., calls the large collaborative project he is spearheading “an opportunity of a lifetime.’’
and alterations to the template as work progresses.
“When you are creating something, you are constantly changing…constantly adding and deleting,’’ he explains.
He envisions the final image will be a collage that is soothing in appearance.
“Soft on the eyes and relaxing,’’ he says.
“Because Canada is a gorgeous country, I imagine it will be gorgeous.’’
Trimble says the country’s “absolute beauty’’ and “open country’’ will feed the images.
The piece, which is expected to be complete by the end of July, will be displayed on a large marine board attached to posts on the south side of Kent
Building Supplies in Montague.
“Essentially we wanted something that would be memorable,’’ says Andrew Rowe, events co-ordinator with the Town of Montague.
“We really wanted to focus on building the nation…we’re definitely excited to have such a big, collaborative piece in the town.’’
“I believe that Islanders want to see a type of politics that reflects our community’s traditions of respect and collaboration,” he said.
“Islanders are yearning for not only a more civil attitude in our politics, but policies that also reflect our values of mutual support, frugality and care for our land.”
Party president Anna Keenan says the party is recruiting people to lead Green associations across the Island, preparing to nominate strong candidates who can run effective campaigns in every district in the next election.
“The goal of the spring conference is to strengthen the party’s structure and culture of collaboration, by welcoming islanders who are interested in seeing more Greens elected and developing our organizing skills,” said Keenan.
Bevan-Baker is currently leading in the polls as the most popular leader of any Island political party. Greens are also having success in other provinces, with David Coon elected in New Brunswick and three elected Greens now holding the balance of power in British Columbia following their May 9 election.
“We are hearing from many supporters that they feel the timing is right to do even better on Prince Edward Island in the next election,” said Lynne Lund, deputy leader.
Added Keenan, “It’s spring, so now is a great time to be putting down roots for our future success.”