Whimsical art exhibit Wonder Land reimagines vacant retail space in downtown London mall
The art and music experience is happening at Citi Plaza until Dec. 16
When it comes to imagining the possibilities for vacant downtown spaces, Kathy Navackas has come up with an experience that showcases local artists, musicians and creatives — and aims to be out-of-this-world.
Wonder Land is a free exhibit taking place at Citi Plaza in downtown London, Ont., hosted by Downtown for the Holidays that runs until Dec. 16.
"It feels magical," said Navackas, who is coordinating the project.
"I was there every day that these artists have been building and developing and adding new components. As the days go on, it gets better and better and truly magical because you walk in and your eyes don't know exactly where to go first. You just explore and it's fabulous."
The former clothing retail space is filled with floating creatures, lights and art displays that captivate and entertain. Over the course of three weekends, the elaborate artwork will set the scene for a series of music performances, live art exhibits and dance parties.
LISTEN | Kathy Navackas talks about using vacant space to foster art and entertainment:
Nearly 20 artists came together to create the experience, including visual artist Kristyn Watterworth.
"I mean, it was quite a trip, and I think we kind of made a trippy place because of it," said Watterworth. "I'm always happy to take on projects like this. It's kind of wild to figure things out on the fly and see where things can go — and magic can really happen."
Kavackas hopes the project will open the door to creating future exhibits and experiences that would provide a space for artists, musicians and creatives that would otherwise sit vacant.
"I'm a firm believer that with arts and culture, we need space. Artists need spaces to do things," she said.
"There's so much empty space that we can use that will enliven what is dead space. And to me, there shouldn't be dead space, especially in our downtown, and this is an opportunity to showcase what can be done."
For more on Wonder Land, visit the Downtown for the Holdiays website.
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