Much controversy has been stirred up in Ottawa this week over a new artwork that was installed along the LeBreton Flats Pathway. The artwork, titled “When the Rubber Meets the Road”, by PEI artist Gerald Beaulieu, is made from recycled tires that have been shaped into a very large crow, apparently designed to be an example of roadkill.
It’s interesting to see the reaction to it: some people are disgusted by it and think it a waste of money, while others think it’s interesting and generates discussion. I tend to side with the naysayers on this one unfortunately. I do feel that it is art, but it doesn’t belong at this location. Art pieces that are designed to generate discussion and controversy don’t belong along the roadside in an otherwise picturesque and fairly tame town. Let’s be honest, Ottawa is not known for it’s edginess. It’s no wonder so many people are up in arms about it. We have many art galleries where people would expect to see something like this, so why place it in this very visible and well traveled location? Not sure who made this decision, but in my opinion, it was a poor one.
Amanda Bennett Art 