Art in Public Spaces – Hamilton, Ontario
Freelance Design in Collaboration with Peter Osborne
Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) Award of Excellence for a public art installation
“Timeline Siteline” is a permanent piece of public art/furniture located on James Street North, Hamilton. Once the city’s primary street from its founding in early 1800’s, James Street is evolving into Hamilton’s city arts district. The rich architectural history and diverse community is now further complimented by galleries, art organizations and studios. The intent with the piece is to respond to this rich history while contributing to the pedestrian friendly public space. By identifying the historical significance of the architecture along James Street North, the work exposes the culturally diverse heritage of Hamilton’s most historically significant street.
Conceptually, the artwork describes the architecture along the western side of James Street North between 125 and 177. A sightline is projected from each building to a timeline on the face of the artwork. The timeline identifies each building’s historical name, original construction, and in some cases, demolition dates. Made of brake-form ¼” thick stainless steel wrapped around a laminate Ipe wood slab, the artwork fulfills stringent city standards for durability while remaining inviting and functional. What emerges is a permanent public artwork made to withstand the same abuses as any city bench. – blending the boundaries between art and infrastructure.
The artwork acts to facilitate a new relationship between James Street North and its inhabitants. Its highly site specific design encourages public participation. The artwork cues passersby’s of their historical surroundings, and makes visible a hidden dimension of James Street North unique heritage.