Cultural institutions are adapting in creative ways to continue their mission through the pandemic. The McMaster Museum of Art began considering outdoor and online spaces for a planned exhibition, when unable to host visitors indoors.
Entitled enawendewin, the word for relationships in the Anishinaabe language, curator William Kingfisher’s exhibition explores our relationship with the land through our connection with the garden. An outdoor site aligned with this concept was found in the McQuesten Urban Farm, an established community resource serving neighbourhood development goals.
The museum sought the expertise of Morse & Associates for help with planning and execution. An outer wall of a converted shipping container greenhouse was selected for permanent display of artworks. We proposed printing the artworks on rigid aluminum composite panels for its stability and durability, suitable for long term outdoor use. A visual layout was then created for client review.
Once the artwork sizes and shapes were determined, work began on the municipal permit application. Morse & Associates prepared or gathered the required documents, including a detailed installation drawing, as well as existing building and property plans. The sign permit was obtained on behalf of the client as part of our permit application service.
Cleared to proceed, the art panels were produced and installed according to plan. A smaller size panel to label each artwork was included. All of the panels have a clear laminate applied for extra durability.
Through fulfilling the goals and requirements of all contributors and organizations involved, this meaningful exhibition was not only able to proceed, but resulted in a permanent display in the community. The artists’ perspectives on our relationship with the land are now present at the garden for years to come.
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