An artistic journey in the middle of the campus
Art brings together the space between Hamelin, Simard, Morisset and Pérez halls. Two imposing murals set the tone: one created by the artist Fatspatrol and the other designed by David McDougall and Sasha Phipps of the Department of Visual Arts technical team and produced by New Born Arts. Pennants mark the pathway and colourful benches invite those walking through to linger. A giant digital screen in front of Hamelin Hall, along the Grande Allée, will present the works of Faculty students. Pictogram banners representing the Faculty’s diverse disciplines will decorate the district’s buildings.
Installations and new sculptures will liven up this developing space, one bridging artistic expression and technology.
It’s only the first phase in the planned growth of this district. Inaugurated this spring, it will gradually evolve through student contributions.
Inspired by students
Like any artistic project, the district is the fruit of a vision... and a very real student desire: to see themselves reflected in a shared space. While the initial development was driven by artists’ and technicians’ talent and shared ideas, subsequent work will stem from student collaboration. Thus, the outdoor screen will show student projects, performances and visual pieces.
The district reflects the soul of the Faculty of Arts — inclusive, diverse, free and in motion.
Its launch coincides with the departure of Dean Kevin Kee, whose vision has helped position the arts and humanities as essential supports in a changing world.
“The Faculty of Arts was central to the founding of this university. Its Arts District is now at the heart of its campus,” the outgoing dean said at the inauguration.
With neighbours including the Ottawa Art Gallery, National Arts Centre and National Gallery, the district fits right in with Ottawa’s cultural life.
“The Faculty of Arts was central to the founding of this university. Its Arts District is now at the heart of its campus.”
Kevin Kee
— Professor and outgoing dean of the Faculty of Arts
A setting open to the general public
The Arts District offers a window on artistic life at the Faculty. The Faculty’s talent and work leave the studio and the classroom to connect with the public.
The district is also consistent with the spirit of the Human Intelligence campaign, which highlights the essential role of the arts and humanities in building a human-centred world.
This new, inspiring district speaks to the University of Ottawa’s areas of excellence: education, creation, inspiration.