Public Art in Solomon’s Lane

Today, the City of St. John’s in partnership with the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador unveiled the recently installed public art project at Solomon’s Lane.

“Solomon’s Lane has come to life with the recent completion of this creative public art project,” said Debbie Hanlon, council lead on the Arts and Culture Advisory Committee. “Through this partnership we are leveraging our annual public art programming, engaging community organizations and developing a project that will help in creating interest, activity and vibrancy in downtown.”

The laneway animation project is a partnership with the Craft Council, and its main priorities were to create a visually beautiful, bright and inviting space within Solomon’s Lane.

“The quilted lane project has overall improved the look and feel of our new home on Duckworth Street! We are thrilled to be working with these amazing artists to portray this wonderful display of colour into the laneway that will no doubt be a tourist attraction for many years to come,” said Rowena House, Executive Director of the Craft Council.

Artists Krystle Hayden, Jovana Randjelovic and Jessica Waterman designed and installed the project, titled (in)habit, that is inspired by the traditional visual language of quilting.

“Using a quilting motif and applying it in an interactive way within the space we create a pull on the viewer, through vibrant colour and design, to explore the space and surrounding area more fully,” said artist Jessica Waterman. “Injecting this space with a blanket of light above and a blanket of colour below is a representation of the traditional and modern artistic elements interacting with one another in a harmonious juxtaposition.”

Since 2005 the City has contracted artists to design and complete several murals throughout St. John’s including on McBride’s Hill, the George Street East Stairwell, Victoria Street steps, Duckworth Street, Flower Hill, Battery Road, Blackhead Road and Scanlan’s Lane.

The cost of the Solomon’s Lane project was $20,000; the City contributed $15,000 and the Craft Council $5000.

This project aligns with the City’s Strategic Plan objective for a Connected City: A city where people feel connected, have a sense of belonging and are actively engaged in community life.

Media Contacts:
Kelly Maguire
Media Relations
City of St. John’s
709-576-8491
kmaguire@stjohns.ca

Charlene Denief
Media Relations
Craft Council of NL
709-753-2749
design@craftcouncil.nl.ca