Friday, May 29, 2009

TGIF Challenge - Architecture




A year ago yesterday a tragic fire that was deliberately set claimed one of the most significant buildings in our city, Alma College. This beautiful, stately building had graced our horizon since 1877 when it was chartered as an independent girls' school. It ceased operations in 1988 and closed its doors in 1994. From that point until its demise it had been the subject of much debate and controversy. Different organizations had taken residence in it for short periods of time and it had even been considered as a seniors' residence for a time. In its final years, the wrecking ball was a constant threat. We had an art display at my library yesterday called "Legacy and Loss" that had been inspired by the architecture of Alma College. The Grade 7 and 8 students had to drive around the city taking photos of houses and buildings built around the same time as the college. They used these photographs to create clay tiles and watercolours. Just seeing the artwork was a reminder of the importance of our history and the influence of architecture.


The TGIF challenge couldn't have been more timely. My round robin journal pages are a tribute to the influence of Greek Architecture.


11 comments:

Nan said...

I like your pages very much and it is a wonderful tribute to your town's history.

indybev said...

Thank you for sharing the bit of history with us. Your art is always a pleasure, Heather.

Sandy said...

Wow this pages are fantastic.
Wonderful historical architecture. Love them.

Thanks Heather for your great entry´s to TGiF.

Martina said...

What a wonderful artwork, Heather.

Faye said...

Beautiful Greek architecture on your lovely pages, Heather. How sad about Alma College! There are buildings here that are historic but in such poor shape that I'm afraid they are due for demolition.

Ellen said...

very impressive pages, so sad that anybody gets it in their mind to destroy our heritage.
I'm glad the schoolchildren are made aware of other building cultures

Anne (cornucopia) said...

These are beautifully created. Thanks for sharing the history behind them. I'm sorry to hear about this senseless destruction of a historic building.

Anonymous said...

Awesome! They have such a great feeling of energy and movement.

Anonymous said...

Both are gorgeous.

Vintage Papers said...

fantastic pieces Heather! I love the images you selected as they depict the Greek culture! have a wonderful weekend!

Janny said...

Great pages Heather!