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Le Cercle Polaire
By : M.A.D. Collectif
GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN – 17th edition
Discipline : Art & Photography : Grand Winner
Categories : Art Projects / Urban Art : Platinum Winner
M.A.D. Collectif presents a signature project entitled Cercle Polaire. It is an original luminous and poetic work created in collaboration with Cree artist Jason Carter. Inspired by First Nations aesthetics, the Cercle Polaire highlights our winter-ness and uniqueness in a modern signature on the Place Ville Marie (PVM) Esplanade, in the heart of downtown Montreal. The universally accessible installation features a luminous visual artwork that integrates with the PVM Oval. The aim is to contribute positively to the visitor experience while stimulating tourism spin-offs in the metropolis and participating in the narrative of illuminating downtown.
The luminous work in which visitors can wander is intended to be immersive and is created in situ to match the iconic architecture of the Esplanade. From then on, the PVM Ring was integrated into the experience. The work’s 12 luminous components are strategically positioned throughout the outdoor spaces of the Esplanade PVM, creating a fascinating tableau for participants. The luminous items that create the Cercle Polaire include three polar bears, eight penguins and a fish, creating a real photo to share that showcases Quebec’s nordicity. This original project pays particular attention to the deep links between these majestic creatures and the aboriginal beliefs that surround them. It also aims to raise visitors’ awareness of the fragility of the polar ecosystem and the need to combat climate change.
The bears featured in the trail are magnificent creations by renowned Cree artist Jason Carter. In collaboration with M.A.D. Collectif, Carter meticulously designed bear sculptures representing a unique vision of these majestic creatures. The luminous installations, an impressive 15 feet high and built in Quebec with remarkable attention to detail, reinforce the work’s comforting theme. Jason Carter’s bear sculptures go far beyond their visual beauty. In First Nations traditions, the bear is a powerful symbol of comfort and good fortune. The presence of a bear in our dreams is considered an omen of good things to come. By incorporating this deep cultural meaning, the light installations embody not only the majesty of the polar bear, but also its power to reassure and inspire hope.
Like the polar bear, penguins are threatened with extinction due to human activity. M.A.D. built 8 penguins between 6 and 8 feet tall that fit in perfectly with the design of the bears. In addition, the fish, measuring 2 feet in length, plays an essential role in the work. The fish not only represents a visual element, but also embodies a subtle and powerful link between the distinct worlds of bears and penguins, respective inhabitants of the north and south poles.
Collaboration
Project Manager : M.A.D. Collectif / Conception
Other : Jean-François Daviau / Idéation
Artist : Jason Carter / D\'après l\'oeuvre de
Other : Louis Tremblay / Direction artistique
