Les Amoureuses

Distinctions

Discipline : Architecture

Categories : Other categories in architecture / Temporary Installation : Silver certification

Lulled by the idea of supporting a discussion, we were inspired by our host site; Venise-en-Québec inspires us with love, while the water whispers beautiful melodies to us. Love and water, both sensitive to the vagaries of life.

Called Les Amoureuses, this ephemeral work rises thanks to its self-supporting structure to withstand the whims of Lake Champlain. Two intertwined boats are independently attached at their base on a steel plate and then connected together on another large steel plate, allowing them to be united to the concealed wooden floor. The addition of stones provides an effective counterweight while integrating the work into its partially landscaped site.

Baskets, this traditional art, allow the boats to come to life. The willows deliver a message of strength and flexibility. Together, they pay tribute to the first nation of Baie Missisquoi, the Abenaki. The expression Flint Water was used to describe this beautiful bay of Lake Champlain. A strong connection with the site's history: water and the first nations.

Les Amoureuses, in the feminine, because love goes beyond conventions. This brave mother, these strong women, but also all relationships as diverse as they may be. The word love in the singular is masculine, but love in the plural becomes feminine. Yet love is far from singular.

Located in a tourist hub, this site welcomes both citizens and vacationers. This work of art is not only contemplative, it is inclusive and participatory. Approaching Les Amoureuses, passersby realize they can insert themselves into the center of the work. They can sit or even climb onto two large stones, either to chat or admire Baie Missisquoi. The work of art thus coexists with passersby and invites frequent visits. It is conducive to dialogue. Moreover, the name of the work encourages openness to diversity.

On the sidelines, a trunk has been placed as if it had run aground... During the inauguration, lovers' initials were engraved by participants to initiate a collective movement, so each visitor will understand that they too can leave their mark on the trunk with their engraving.

On the shores, The Boats rest, Les Amoureuses embrace looking at the mirror of their souls.

This Ephemeral Work will be marked for many loves.

The project in images