Brightening Barriers exhibition returns, bringing local art to downtown Barrie patios

Barrie, ON- Nine restaurant patios in Barrie's downtown now have temporary art installations displayed on their patio fencing as part of the Brightening Barriers public art project, which pairs local and regional artists with business owners. The exhibition is on display until September 30, 2022. 

“Building on last year's success, this project is returning once again to bring a free and accessible cultural component to our community," says Stephannie Schlichter, Director of Economic and Creative Development. “The exhibition animates the downtown corridor with points of interest along Dunlop and Collier Streets, encouraging residents and visitors to explore downtown Barrie and support local businesses while appreciating the original works of art."

The participating downtown patios and featured artworks are:

Bohemia - Why We Knit by Tracey Anne MartinFlying Monkeys Craft Brewery – Compliment Clouds by Petra VictoriaGroovy Tuesday's Bistro – How it Rolls at the Pond by Rod ProuseKenzington Burger Bar – It's a Dog's Life by Christina LuckMcReilly's Pub – Peace by Neda Mazhab JafariMexhico - Sweet Moves by Katie GreenMichael & Marion's – Garden Party by PRNT CollectiveNorth Country - The Land Between Rama and Barrie I & II by The Birdbath CollaborationThe North - North Winds by Amy Bagshaw

The Brightening Barriers project was organized by the Barrie Public Art Committee, a working group whose goal is to enhance Barrie with art and encourage residents and visitors alike to visit public spaces. Elevating civic pride through public art, preservation of historic buildings, and programming of public spaces is also identified as one of the key themes in Barrie's Official Plan.

To learn more about artworks on display as part of this project, visit “Brightening Barriers" viabarrie.ca/PublicArt.

The Brightening Barriers project was made possible by several sponsors: B + C Real Estate, Baytowne Hyundai, Carroll Heyd Chown LLP, the Downtown Barrie BIA, Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery, Jackson's Toyota, Joan and Bob Gilroy, Liz and Barry Peacock, Podhradsky Medicine Professional Corporation, and Royal Homes.

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