“I’ve been sketching in Centretown and Ottawa for over fifteen years, and as a result, my sketches have captured change in the city.
One of my initial interests was neighbourhood corner stores, often run by families, and usually these shops had apartments above them. Over the years, some of these charming places have disappeared, while others adapt, updating signage, renovating, and finding new revenue models. Some, remarkably, have managed to sustain, seemingly defying the pressures around them, remaining unchanged, at least visually.
One of the first urban sketches I made in Ottawa was at the corner of Nepean and Bank, looking East. The fire escapes, the slightly chaotic rooftop on the West side, and the storefronts below all appealed to me. Fire escapes are a thing of the past now due to changes in the Building Code, but I find they can add intrigue, visual interest and charm to a building. They can act as mini balconies, outdoor spaces for plants, or a place to watch the sunset.
I’ve spent more time sketching around this same area on Bank Street the past two Summers, in part because of the possibility of massive change along this block. Change is inevitable in a city but can be disruptive to those directly affected by it, especially when they are not included in the decision making.
Over the years, I’ve realized the significance of capturing these urban sketches. These are places with meaning to people, some of that meaning shared, and some personal to the individual. I’ve sketched cafes where couples first met. I’ve sketched apartment blocks where people rented their first home. I’ve sketched stores that remind people of their childhood. Places have both meaning to the community, and to the individual. Sketching this change has become part of my work. I do not expect Centretown or any neighbourhood in any city to remain unchanged. However, I want that change to be carefully considered and, ideally, to incorporate the impact on individuals, small businesses, and those who are invested in their surrounding neighbourhood.”
Colin White @colinwhite : Illustrator/Artist
