Tinkling of the ivories in Comox is now a multi-sensory experience, thanks to hundreds of Comox Valley artists.
Two pianos placed within the town for public use as part of Keys By The Sea are now highly decorated pieces of art for both the eyes and ears, thanks to Kelly Maguire of Kelly Cat Community Arts and the Comox Business in Action.
“It’s absolutely awesome,” explained Haeley Dewhirst, executive director, Comox By The Sea BIA. “You see a lot of community talent.”
The Keys By The Sea program has been implemented for a few years through the BIA, with one piano for public use located at the corner of Port Augusta and Comox Avenue near the Comox Centre Mall, and a second near the waterpark at the Comox Marina.
The program runs from May to September every year, and displays the art and culture of the town, added Dewhirst.
Maguire explained more than 200 people have helped contribute to the community art project.
“The piano at the marina is definitely more kid-friendly, with the theme which is largely underwater. The one on Comox Avenue is more symbolic of community. It has many squares and is symbolic of quilts. As people walk by, we encourage them to partake and make their mark.”
Because of the variety of contributors, Maguire said neither project turned out the way she initially thought, which she added is “wonderful.”
“There is a general theme (for each piano) and we direct people to contribute in a more focused way – we have the colour scheme planned out.”
Currently, there are two pianos for public use, in addition to a third one at Filberg Park. Dewhirst explained the BIA plans to have the two pianos back next year.
They will remain at their respective locations until the end of the month when the pianos will be moved into storage for the winter thanks to Comox Moving and Storage.
erin.haluschak@comoxvalleyrecord.comLike us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter
