Aly was somewhat gobsmacked when told by Society President Tom Andrews her entry won, but still managed to blurt out “Wow, I’ve never won anything before.”
Number 6 in the Community Series, In Tune With Nature, is a departure from what people usually think of as a mural, which is art painted directly on a wall or surface.
The mural society’s board thought Aly’s entry best encapsulated the mural’s concept created by artist Kris Friessen.
The themes, painted on the inner and outer surfaces of a purpose-built enclosure built by Dean Irwin, are nature and music. The exterior features a lush forest scene with some interested forest denizens keeping watch, with the music of the forest wending its way through the surroundings. The musical score is from What a Wonderful World popularized by Louis Armstrong.
When the box is opened and the sides are outspread, viewers will see an upright grand piano, painted and blended into an underwater ocean scene. Earth’s oceans also contain their own music which is shown moving through the water. The water’s musical score mimics that of a whale’s call.
When the mural is officially open, Chemainiacs and visitors will be more than welcome to play their favourite tunes.
However, be prepared for Covid 19 safety measures.
Aly wins a $100 gift certificate for 49th Parallel, and a mural book.
Many thanks to the other 70 entrants for the many creative names submitted.
Riot Brewing is a great supporter of the Chemainus community since the business opened.
Due to the continuing issues facing us with the current pandemic, no date has been set for the official opening of In Tune With Nature, however the board is hoping for late June or early July.
The piano was donated by Peggy Grigor of Pottery by Peggy, and Brad Grigor and of Turning Point Arts. The concept was Peggy’s idea.
Community Series #6
In Tune With Nature
Artist: Kris Friessen
Year: 2020
Location 9790 Willow St., Chemainus BC. V0R1K0
Dimensions: Box closed: 2.44m x 1.96m wide x 1.19m (8’ x 6’5” x 3’11”). Box open: 6.05m (19’10”). Platform: 2.31m wide x 1.47m (7’7” x 4’10”)
Best Viewed: From the parking lot in front of Chemainus Public Market.