The Streetscape Committee recently commissioned local artist Annette Gillon to design new Banners for the bridge portion of Chestermere Boulevard. These newest editions to Chestermere’s growing outdoor art collection were installed at the beginning of August.
Sandra Rideout, Secretary for the Committee, worked with Gillon to come up with a concept that would most suit Chestermere’s personality. In their collaborative efforts it was decided that a specialized look was preferred over something more generic and with the town’s rapid expansion keeping historical images would be desired. “We wanted to make sure that our history didn’t get lost with the town growing so quickly,” said Rideout. “For new people it is a reminder of our town’s roots.”
Along the way Gillon suggested they visit Fort Calgary for inspiration. They liked the idea of photographs so Rideout and Gallon sourced the online photo archives from Glenbow Museum as well as obtaining one through the Historical Foundation. Four different shots from Chestermere were chosen and the banners enhanced with nautical colors. Although Chestermere’s age as a town is young, being incorporated in 1993, its area is rich with history from the early days of the CPR and even earlier days as a corridor for the Blackfoot Indian Nation travel.
Chestermerian Gillon who has a fine arts degree from ACAD has been living in Chestermere for close to 9 years. Recently she completed a certificate in graphic design and donating her talents was a chance for her to put her new skills into practice. This mother of 2 was thrilled when her design and talents were put to use for all to enjoy. Through the project she even found her own historical connection to the lake. “I discovered my mother had spent a year of high school at Chestermere. It’s amazing how everything is connected and we are all a product of our history,”said Gillon.
The photographs on the banner take us from the early lake days on the lake, from 1912 all the way up to 1955. Rideout said the kids on the dock were school children from Kent School District picnicking at the lake. Gillon loves the 1955 picture of “A.W. Pappy” Lea, honorary commodore of the Yacht Club and official starter for 27 years. She said, “It’s so iconic, really a beautiful picture.”
Gillon is an active school volunteer at Prairie Water and is also a Fitness Instructor. She ran the Stroller Fit exercises at the Recreation Center and continues to run evening fitness classes for adults.
Local business owner Trent DeGoesbraind of Sign Craft was commissioned to make and install the banners.
The Streetscape which presently has 8 members meets monthly to pool ideas for town beautification. They work with a designated budget through Town Parks. They choose the designs for their projects as well as taking all the steps from start to finish. Rideout who has worked with the committee for 4 years said that being a part of this creative and community enhancing programs has been very exciting and gratifying.
The Streetscape Committee is always looking for more members. If interested contact Bill Peddlesden, Committee Chairman, wpeddlesden@gmail.com
