"For every mile of track laid..." (2024)
Billboards with reproductions of a series of six paper cutouts inspired by the site of the CPR Angus Shops and presenting views that delve into the multifaceted historical Chinese connections to Canada’s railway system. From “The ‘Other’ Last Spike / L’Autre dernier clou (1885)” and “Chinese Labour Corps / Corps de travailleurs chinois (1917-1920)” that honours the contributions of Chinese labourers, to “C.P.R. Tea Shed / Remise à thé du CP, Vancouver (1887),” and “The Silk Trains / Trains de la soie (1887-1939)” that once raced across the nation, each piece offers a glimpse into pivotal moments. “For every mile of track laid… / Pour chaque mile de voie construit… (1881-1885)” is a poignant reminder of lives lost and reveals the human stories behind Canada’s iconic railways. Along with the light-hearted “Pâté chinois,” these cutouts form a compelling exploration of history, labour, and trade.
Commissioned as a L’ART S’AFFICHE X TECHNOPÔLE ANGUS project, sited on the fence surrounding the Place Michel Hébert construction site, at the corner of Molson and William-Tremblay streets (Montréal, QC).L’art s’affiche is a public display project, with the objective of making contemporary art accessible while visually energizing the urban space.
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