Exit 232 is Now a Work of Art

Friday, 12 October 2018 at 13:53

The Woodstock Art Gallery was a packed place this morning, to witness the unveiling of a special plaque for the new Norwich Ave bridge over the 401.

WOODSTOCK - The Woodstock Art Gallery was a packed place this morning, to witness the unveiling of a special plaque for the new Norwich Ave bridge over the 401.

Director Curator Mary Reid says the old bridge was the scene of a historic painting by Jack Chambers.

"He stood on the old overpass and he painted this extraordinary view of the scenery looking towards London from the Woodstock bridge. Now 50 years later, as we all know the bridge has been replaced with a new overpass so we've been able to bring back this very notable and historical painting to Woodstock."

Gary Spearin explains why he wanted to create a new version of the painting.

"I've always driven by and tried to find where that was originally years ago. I figured out where it was and knowing that they were making a new bridge and the old one was going to come down, it was an idea to commemorate it."

At the unveiling ceremony, MPP Ernie Hardeman remarked that our Government for the People is a government of respect.

"We are so pleased that there was an opportunity to celebrate the legacy of a Canadian artist as part of the bridge construction. The partnership between the Ministry of Transportation and the Woodstock Art Gallery is a testament of how transportation history and art can bring us together.”

Woodstock Mayor Trevor Birtch was also happy to be in attendance for the ceremony today.

“It is remarkable to consider how art can touch many aspects and facets of our lives. even an exit onto the 401. It is important to remember that art is everywhere and impacts the lives of all of us for the better and today is a testament to that.”

The painting is on display in the Art Gallery today, alongside an updated version by artist Gary Spearin.

The new plaque will be installed on the barrier wall of the north-west corner of the bridge in the next couple of weeks.