I was generally upset at the severely restricted timeline. My theory was it would be an 'inside job' and that someone 'in the know' had already come up with a proposal and this ad was just window-dressing so that it could be said that the commission was put out to tender.
Fuming, I told Sharon that it would definitely take longer than a week to come up with an idea, a budget and of course, a presentable design! Usually, for something of this magnitude, I like to allow my idea to marinate as I patiently wait for that 'click' moment when the design comes together both visually and conceptually. Like say, about a month. I also much prefer to secure a written contract with my client including a cash deposit in place before my pencil hits the paper. That is my standard policy as a long-time mural-painter/designer.
Her response to my conundrum was simple and eloquent.
"Shit or get off the pot!"
Thinking of the potential excitement that this project might generate, I decided on the spot to sink my teeth into it. I called a couple of fellow artists who also lived at Manitou Beach and we settled on a quick meeting that very evening. They were Darrell Baschak, a fellow painter and house builder. (his day job) and Robert (Bob) Thibault, a fabrication master and expert welder. Once I mentioned the potential project, the two gentlemen decided on the spot to join forces with me. So far, so good.
Darrell suggested the idea of 'reflections' be the central motif of the project. Bob and I both agreed so I set out to come up with a design with that idea in mind. After some more brainstorming, we came to the logical conclusion that the artwork should be constructed of a highly reflective material, such as stainless steel. Here is my first, rapidly executed rough draft that I came up with.
A fine example of the iconic reflections cast by Little Manitou Lake on a still day.
The design concept that received unanimous support from the planning committee.
With my above rough sketch in hand, I flew out to Nova Scotia for a pre-planned visit and fact-finding mission. I had my laptop with Photoshop installed, so I drilled down into the concept and created a more satisfying rendering:
The design concept that went on to earn the three collaborators 50% funding from Canada Heritage.
We were very excited to hear from our liaison from the Village Council that my design received a unanimous vote of confidence from every member of the planning committee! We were one step closer to realizing the "Manitou Reflections Project" vision.
The design concept that received unanimous support from the planning committee.
With my above rough sketch in hand, I flew out to Nova Scotia for a pre-planned visit and fact-finding mission. I had my laptop with Photoshop installed, so I drilled down into the concept and created a more satisfying rendering:
The design concept that went on to earn the three collaborators 50% funding from Canada Heritage.
We were very excited to hear from our liaison from the Village Council that my design received a unanimous vote of confidence from every member of the planning committee! We were one step closer to realizing the "Manitou Reflections Project" vision.
Stay tuned for the complete story in the coming weeks.
If you can't wait, check out my website at www.mrgaudet.com
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