The image above shows the current state of a key linking portion of the National Gallery’s entry sequence. This long multi-storied hall is a gently sloping ramp that connects two glass pavilions – the lower one serving as the main entrance and ticketing space – the upper one is the first access point into the galleries proper. This is a simple ‘promenade architectuale’ that brings visitors to art – a figurative and literal elevation.
With the renovation project now underway, it is interesting that the institution has taken such care to maintain some aspects of the space’s original design qualities – in particular the walkway’s height and abundant natural light. It is not usual to see hoarding go this far beyond the basic functional requirements for project safety. This walkway, in it’s usual non-construction state, is striking – it is south facing with expansive views that include the Rideau Canal and Parliament Hill. Now, with the warm unfinished plywood and vinyl canvas hoarding in place, the hall has the feel of a designed installation.
The images with this post are shown in the order taken on a visit to the gallery Saturday. They can be enlarged by clicking or double clicking on them. The next image below is a detail from the upper glass pavilion, highlighting the regular complexity of the roof’s lantern structure.
The six images following show work included in the 2017 Canadian Biennial which closed on Sunday. The National Gallery’s website notes that the exhibition ‘brings together a comprehensive selection of works acquired since 2014 by the Gallery’s departments of Contemporary Art, Indigenous Art, and the Canadian Photography Institute…’
Maya Lin
Stan Douglas
Susan Point
Nick Cave
(artist reference to be added)
Exiting
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