Art Gallery gets sculpture go-ahead

By this time next year the boulevard in front of the Colborne Art Gallery will hold the Claus Heinecke sculpture, Empathy.

The sculpture raised eyebrows and the ire of some members of the community when it was first proposed by the gallery artists in the summer. Not knowing the township protocol for their request, the group presented their plan to Development Officer Rebecca Goddard-Sarria. She supported the proposal and took it to Cramahe Council on August 11 where the whole concept was put on hold.

Council refused to give its support in August until after the artists went to the neighbours to seek their approval. They were also required to meet with Heritage Cramahe, the body which oversees heritage buildings in the township. The gallery is housed in the former Registry Building, which is designated.

The artists did that. The artists say that Tip Top Realty is onside and Heritage Cramahe supports the project.

Barbara Buntin and Mr. Heinecke were back at Cramahe Council on November 2, once more seeking approval.

Ms. Buntin outlined the galleries plans and stated the sculpture was part of the regeneration of the gallery. Through various forms of advertising the artists hope to create greater interest in the gallery and its shows.

She acknowledged that operating a gallery in a small community is a challenge. People don't know what is going on at the "vibrant" gallery. The artists hope to change that. They want to do so without taking away from the heritage building. The sculpture will be a non-verbal promotion of the types of art displayed inside.

Mr. Heinicke spoke about his sculpture which consists of two interlocking curved elements reflecting each other. He said, "They describe a curved gesture, a rhythm, a sympathetic line and shape that change with every angle and view." He wants the sculpture to become part of the visual fabric of Colborne.

His views were not shared by Councillor Ed Van Egmond.

Mr. Van Egmond questioned what was trying to be said by the art. He's seen other Heinecke pieces and found them amazing - but not this one. In response to the artists' interpretations he commented that it was all in the eye of the beholder. People have told him the work looks like wet noodles or pool toys.

Mr. Heinicke likened the abstract sculpture to works of music. When we have the lyrics to a piece it tells a story. When there are no lyrics the music is open to interpretation - like the abstract piece of art. He admitted it is difficult to look at art that way. We have much greater experience doing that with music.

Mayor Marc Coombs led the discussion on November 2, stating he was completely in favour of having the art erected.

After listening to the discussion, Councillor Pat Westrope admitted the work had a Wow factor. She was pleased that the artists had done the necessary consultation.

Councillor Tim Gilligan felt that it was great if it started discussion.

Only Councillor Van Egmond opposed the approval. Deputy Mayor Jim Williams was absent.

Council approved the erection of the art by a 3-1 vote.

The artists will conduct a spring fundraising campaign to pay for the installation of the sculpture donated by the artist. They hope to have it up by the summer of 2010.