Painting has begun for a new art installation in Bridgewater that is bringing the community and local businesses together.
In celebration of the town’s 125 anniversary, an idea was put forward by the South Shore Centre to construct a large “BRIDGEWATER” sign on the backside of the mall which faces Pijinuiskaq Park.
To bring the community together on the project the Town of Bridgewater and the management of the South Shore Centre organized getting local businesses to sponsor and paint individual letters.
The idea seemed to be a hit according to Bridgewater Economic Development Officer Donna Hatt who told us as of August 28 all but one letter had been claimed. “The D is all we have left so anyone interested in being part of this project which we hope will leave a lasting legacy and landmark on the LaHave should reach out soon,” Hatt said.
Once complete the sign will be 60 feet long and 8 feet high, providing a backdrop on the banks of the LaHave River.
Participating businesses and organizations now have until September 10 to finish painting their letters.
Although the installation’s general colour theme is intended to be a rainbow Hatt says for the most part the letter sponsors are being given freedom to express themselves how they wish.
Most of the painting will be done by staff or members of the various sponsors, but in some cases, there are opportunities for the broader community to get involved.
“The South Shore Centre are sponsoring the second E, and they are hosting painting sessions where anyone can come and add to their design which I’ve been told is polka dot themed,” said Hatt.
Hatt also said that some of the other sponsors indicated a desire to involve the community with their letters and said people should be looking out for invites to help with painting.
A painting space has been set up in the mall where sponsors can drop in and work on the letters and the public is also invited to drop in and watch and in some cases participate.
Who’s doing what letters?
- B The Town of Bridgewater will be painting the B with a unique take on the town’s logo.
- R Berrigan Survey are painting the R and said they wanted it as for them the R is for river and will inspire their design.
- I Will stand for “inclusivity” which was the idea of the South Shore Multicultural Association.
- D Unclaimed as of August 28.
- G Adopted by Gows Home Hardware
- E The Bridgewater Tae Kwon Do Club are planning on letting youth members and families help with the painting.
- W Adopted by Weagles Bakery.
- A Adopted by Fresh Cuts Market.
- T Adopted by Michelin Tires.
- E The South Shore Centre claimed the second E and will be hosting a family painting session at the mall to encourage community participation.
- R Adopted by the River Pub.
The sign will be unveiled on September 20 to kick off the Harvest Moon Festival.
Any organizations interested in sponsoring the one unclaimed letter are asked to contact the Town of Bridgewater.
