Public Art
As part of its mission to make art accessible to all, the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre actively advocates and facilitates the installation of public art.
Hydro Box Beautification
The Niagara-on-the-Lake Hydro Box Beautification Competition, launched in 2019, is a collaborative initiative by NOTL Hydro, the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre, and the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake's Communities in Bloom Committee. The project transforms hydro boxes into public artworks, celebrating regional artists and enhancing the town's charm.
Each year, artists are invited to submit designs inspired by the cultural, historical, or natural beauty of the region. Selected works are printed on vinyl wraps and applied to hydro boxes, creating an accessible outdoor gallery. This initiative not only contributes to aesthetic appeal of Niagara-on-the-Lake but also offers a platform for artists to showcase their creativity.
The Hydro Box Beautification project continues to inspire and connect residents and visitors, demonstrating the profound impact of art in transforming everyday spaces into meaningful community landmarks.
Virgil Mural
This art installation on the Niagara Orchard & Vineyard Corp. building, situated in the heart of Virgil's main hub, celebrates the town's agricultural heritage and Niagara-on-the-Lake's vibrant arts and culture scene. Spearheaded by the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre's board chair Lise Andreana and supported by Clare Cameron, Wendy Cheropita, Marnie Cluckie and Betty Disero, the project beautifully unites art, culture, tourism, and agriculture. Local artist Ron Clavier's generous donation of his work, Day's End, embodies the town's agricultural roots. Volunteer Gail Kerr took on the job of overseeing the art installation.
This endeavor was made possible through the vital support of Deputy Lord Mayor Erwin Wiens, building owner Arnie Lepp, and contributions from local businesses. Generous sponsorships from BASF, Bayer Crop Science, Hummel Properties Inc., Lakeview Equipment Inc., Quiet Acres Farms, St. Davids Cold Storage, Syngenta Canada, and Two Sisters Vineyards, further exemplify the power of community partnership. Together, they have contributed to a lasting tribute to Virgil's heritage and the creative spirit of the town.
In the News
The NOTL Local | Niagara Advance | The Lake Report
'Three of Hearts' by Ronald Boaks
The Three of Hearts sculpture, a stunning welded steel sculpture, was generously donated by acclaimed local artist Ronald Boaks. Standing at 86" x 52" x 10", this interactive piece conveys a message of inclusivity and love, inviting visitors to engage with art in a personal and dynamic way.
Mounted on a single post, the sculpture can rotate, allowing guests to frame unique photo opportunities against the backdrop of the heritage building, rose garden, or the picturesque Niagara River. This design encourages active participation, transforming how visitors experience public art.
Three of Hearts is a captivating addition to the outdoor space, enhancing its role as a hub for creativity and connection. This donation highlights the power of art to inspire community engagement and enrich the cultural landscape of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Community Art Projects
Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre's community art projects invite the public to participate, express their creativity, and explore new mediums. These art projects are often created during community events or programs, fostering connection and engagement through the arts.
To date, Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre Centre has gifted two artworks to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Town Hall, each deeply tied to the town's identity. One of the artworks, Peach Orchard Landscape (shown), honours the region's agricultural heritage, capturing the essence of its iconic peach orchards through collaborative printmaking.
Beyond Town Hall, additional community artworks are proudly displayed at the NOTL Youth Collective Hub and the Niagara-on-the-Lake Sailing Club. These contributions underscore the Niagara Pumphouse Art Centre's dedication to enriching public spaces.
Looking ahead, the art hub of the community plans to expand these efforts, bringing new artworks not only to Town Hall but also to other town properties. With each project, Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre continues to inspire and connect the community through art.