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Library + Art
I received a shipment the other day that looks like a pair of really long skis or a big rolled-up something. I happened to know what it was without opening, though, because I was expecting it: it’s the hardware that, when installed, will make up the library’s new hanging system for artwork.
Art in the public library is a concept with a great deal of history, from permanent installations to rotating collections. I’ve even heard of a library that loans out pieces of art just like books! Since we opened the doors to the new library nearly two years ago, I have been approached at least a dozen times by artists about displaying their work in the library.
Now, at last, we will have the means to implement an art program in the library. A hanging system is a permanent installation of rails, to which cables and connectors can be attached to hang pieces of all sizes at various heights. The wall space we have available is so high off the ground that a system like this not only eliminates nail holes and subsequent wall damage, but it also minimizes the amount of time and maneuvering on very tall ladders that will be necessary when installing or taking down a show.
The first display that will be on view will be part of ArtWalk, a program of the Whistler Arts Council. They helped us in selecting the best hanging system to use, and the various partners in Whistler Canada Olympic House purchased the hardware for us as part of their sponsorship. This includes the Canadian Olympic Committee, the RMOW, the Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia.
I beg of you: please don’t approach me about having your artwork on display right now. Our Board of Trustees has formulated an Art Committee to deal with policy regarding this – you’d be surprised how complicated it is, from insurance to security to how we will select the pieces. Sadly, the late Chris Hauserman was one of the key committee members, so we have to regroup and start over. I will write another column in the post-Olympic period about the details of the art program when we have them.
Art in the library is one more way that we can serve the Whistler Community – by making Art (with a capital A) available to people who might not make the effort to visit a gallery or museum, and to give local artists a venue for exhibiting their work.
Lauren Stara, Library Director