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DEPUTATION CONCERNING MOTION 21-G-040, I LOVE BARRIE SIGNAGE
The following Deputations were provided concerning motion 21-G-040, I Love Barrie Signage:
1. Aurelia Stec provided an overview of her background as a visual artist, an educator with the County of Simcoe. She provided her opinions associated to the public criticisms of the I Love Barrie Signage including claims not reflective of a larger public sentiment, that a handful of naysayers does not diminish the voice of citizens who elected a Councillor for his keen business sense and an ambitious vision for the City, and that the proposed sign announces Barrie on a world stage aligning us with other world class cities. She advised that she believes this is a passion project and is an effort towards inclusion and civic pride.
Ms. Stec questioned whether the sign is considered art. She noted that members of the community based on their expertise and superior notions of design believe that the sign would not fit their criteria for art as it is unoriginal, and does not belong in Meridian Place, a location key to delivering content and reaching an audience. Ms. Spec provided her opinion regarding the sign's possible location in Meridian Place noting that its not just a gallery for specific types of artworks. She advised that Meridian Place is a public space that should reflect the character of the larger community. Ms. Stec further advised that art should not be excluded, but that the approach should be inclusive, rather than exclusive, and different types of artwork can co-exist and aesthetics of everyday people that the I Love Barrie Signage would be about.
Ms. Stec commented on the financial criticisms by members of the community by advising that the money can be better spent, and suggestions that the funds should support their own endeavors or put towards other more beneficial projects. She noted that the funds were privately raised and if anyone wants to pursue a worthy project, they are encou...
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