Brantford City Council unanimously endorsed a staff proposal that calls on community members to participate in a unique TH&B Crossing Bridge Public Art Project at their regular meeting on Tuesday, July 26.
Also endorsed by the Brantford Cultural Advisory Committee, the project is intended to celebrate the iconic TH&B Bridge by featuring art created by community members that celebrates the local history, culture, events, places and people.
Disappointedly, in recent years, TH&B Crossing Bridge has been a primary target of vandalism, mainly undesirable graffiti, that, in some cases is inappropriate and/or offensive. As a key part of the city’s infrastructure and an historical landmark that spans over the picturesque Grand River, TH&B Crossing Bridge is a fixture within the city’s landscape that has the opportunity to be a bold and beautiful artistic statement.
“I am so pleased that both the Cultural Advisory Committee and Council are in support of this very unique opportunity. Public art connects us to our neighbours through a shared history and culture that is unique to our city. I so look forward to how our local artists will bring the TH&B Bridge to life with art,” said Cheryl Antoski, Ward 4 Councillor.
TH&B Crossing Bridge is a well utilized pedestrian crossing over the Grand River. In Fall 2021, an Environmental Assessment recommended that TH&B Crossing Bridge undergo minor rehabilitation to the bridge deck to extend its service life. The bridge deck is expected to be replaced in the coming months, and along with this public art project will significantly enhance the Bridge aesthetic.
“A community public art project is a perfect way to showcase local stories and demonstrate what makes our city so special, diverse and inclusive. I am so excited to see the artistic talents of residents on display for all to enjoy and the best part of it is that it will be created by the community for the community,” Joshua Wall, Ward 5 Councillor.
Calling all local artists and visual storytellers!
To help revitalize this important connection within the City’s extensive trail network over the rest of its service life, individuals, community groups, and local organizations are invited to submit art designs for up to five bridge panels that depict one or more of the following themes:
- Local culture
- Local history
- Local people
- Local events
- Local destinations
There are 112 interior bridge panels available for painting (7-8 ft wide by 4.4 ft. high).
How to submit a design
To submit a design that will be considered for inclusion in this special community public art installation, please visit Brantford.ca/THBPublicArt. Submissions will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 31, 2022.
Submissions will be reviewed and selected by a team of City staff based on how well they align with the project themes. Once applicants are notified of their successful submission, the City will provide art supplies and a painting schedule.
