A local business owner is turning an unfortunate experience into something positive and creative for the residents of Wallaceburg.
Jordan Kniaziew said his business Kniaziew Optometry was the target of a break-and-enter late last year. However, while improving the security measures around the building on Dufferin Avenue, he took notice of the blank wall on the neighbouring building of Rays Mini Mart.
“We realized it would be a great opportunity to have a chance to possibly do some artwork and possibly to inspire the community,” said Kniaziew. “There are over 1,000 people that drive by on Dufferin Road every day that would see this beautiful canvas.”
Kniaziew then pitched the idea to Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff, as well as Wallaceburg councillors Carmen McGregor and Aaron Hall, who jumped at the opportunity to support a mural at the site.
“They thought it was a good idea as well to bring that kind of artistic flair, that beautification to Wallaceburg and really have an opportunity to inspire the youth,” said Kniaziew.
Kniaziew then recruited his friend Julie Amlin, a Toronto artist who specializes in large-scale murals in public spaces, who will begin painting the local art piece on July 15.
“When we take out public spaces and see them as an extension of our living space and a space that we share in the community… to me that says this space matters, our community matters and we’re going to be intentional about the environment we want to create here,” she said.
Local residents will also be able to watch and interact with Amlin as she works to complete the mural.
The project will be funded through the Hydro One Reserve, a partnership between the utility and the municipality that grants $10M to CK over 10 years to fund arts, culture, and recreation in the area.
