Together Valerie Marchand and Heather Marchand created a temporary site specific installation on Lakeshore Mews for Barrie’s “Art ce Soir.”  Inspired by the Art Shanty Project together they will create and in install artwork that responds to the interior and exterior of a Northern Ontario fishing shanty or hut.  The event took place September 29, 2012 from 2pm to 2am. 

​

​The ice hut is a tradition.  It is a temporary shelter.  It is also a tool used for hunting and gathering.  The ice hut is an active connection to both the land and water at one time.  The artwork installed will create an interactive environment using the structure itself, 2 dimensional work and sculptural installations related to themes explored. ​

​

I chose to respond the the hearth of the ice hut.  A small cast iron wood burning stove provides heat for those inside when the conditions outside are bitterly cold.  A group of house cats huddle around the warmth of the fireplace a top a “bear skin” rug.  The rug is hooked which​

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Both Valerie and Heather’s work explores the nature surrounding them.  Heather is fascinated by the sea and its wonders within while Valerie explores the land.  Both artists are connected to Georgian Bay, (where they grew up as sisters) the land and bodies of water surrounding it.  The transcendent awe of the natural world is explored by both artists without denying the brutal realities that come along with it. ​

​