Reclaiming Public Space for Community and Culture

The COVID-19 Pandemic and the public health measures to curtail its impact have caused people and communities to rethink how they share and co-create culture. Personal interaction in enclosed public spaces such as theatres, galleries, sports arenas, etc. has traditionally been key to how we celebrate and build a sense of identity and community. Without an ability to gather in large groups indoors, artists have been left with limited opportunities to share their work and to make unique contributions to the life and well-being of communities. This project seeks to strengthen relationships with our communities, placing the arts at the heart of public engagement. The project also seeks to generate cultural and creative sharing and celebration by making use of outdoor spaces usually frequented by people in Corner Brook and surrounding areas. In this region, individuals and families usually turn to winter activities such as skiing, sledding, or snowshoeing. Through collaboration with the arts organization The Cloud Factory as well as Blow Me Down Ski Trails, this project seeks to bring creativity in the form of visual arts and poetry to public and outdoor spaces.