Q: What exactly is Froid'Art?
A: Froid'Art is art encased in ice. It may seem like a strange idea to some, but in Kingston it is becoming a winter tradition. Since 2015, I have teamed up with local artists to have Froid’Art, an outdoor illuminated ice art exhibit throughout the downtown. The thing that is unique about this is that it is all local artists. We all just want people to get involved and we want to make art accessible, especially in the winter.
Q: How did you come up with the idea?
A: I was chatting to Wendy, my wife, about walking to stay in shape. I pointed out that it was harder to walk around the city in winter because it is cold and dark, but maybe a little bit of art may make it more inviting. My wife commented that it would be vandalized and I thought not if it was in ice. I had the idea and we went for it. The first block was on our front lawn and it generated a lot of buzz and it has just spread from there.
Q: How long have you been doing this?
This is our tenth year.
Q: Are we allowed to touch them?
Yes, they are solic ice and weigh 300 lbs. You won't damage them by touching them.
Q: I noticed that in the past sometimes they are a bit fogged up, and you cannot see the art inside very well. What can be done?
If they are fogged up, just wipe the surface with your warm hand and the ice will become clear. But do not use your tongue - not recommended! ;)
Q: Can we take pictures?
Of course! Take lots of pictures and post to social media!
Q: What if there is a layer of snow covering the blocks due to an overnight snowfall?
Brush the now off with your mittens.
Q: When does this event end?
Froid'art ends when the blocks melt.
Q: What happens to the art when the blocks melt?
Most of the time, we are able to remove the artwork from the melting blocks. The art should survive, unless it has been vandalized near the end of the ice block's life.
Q: Do you have anything to add?
I want it to be our biggest and best ever. So I hope that everyone will get outside go walking around to find these pieces, take pictures of them, share them and tag and post about them to help spread the word. The best way to reach out to people these days is through social media. So we’re hoping the people of Kingston will jump on board and help spread the word about this event. Please take lots of photos and share on social media on your posts and stories. Tag @martelloalley so we can see your great photos!
Once upon a time, in the heart of downtown Kingston, there existed a dark and dirty alley known as Martello Alley. It was a place that most people avoided, a narrow passage that seemed to exist in perpetual shadow, ignored by people who passed by. The alley walls were painted deep brown, and the space was littered with discarded trash.
David Dossett often walked past it on his way to work, casting a sorrowful glance at the neglected passage. He often said to himself, "Why doesn't somebody do something about this?" He harbored a vision of transforming the forlorn alley into a thriving, vibrant space for the community. Finally he decided that, since no one else would step forward, he must be the one to do something. So he embarked on a mission to breathe life into Martello Alley.
His first task was to remove the accumulated trash and debris. He spent one month on his hands and knees painting the asphalt floor with a sponge and a special driveway stain.
Over the course of four months, Martello Alley slowly began to transform. David repainted the faded walls with bright, cheerful colors. The north wall of the courtyard was transformed into "Strasbourg." He created the illusion of a French street by installing panels that resembled doors and windows. These installations made it possible to quickly and elegantly display artwork in the alley during the day, and conceal it at night. He hung strings of fairy lights, transforming the once-dim passage into a magical corridor that glowed with warmth and life. People passing by could scarcely believe their eyes.
The restaurant ajacent to the north wall of the courtyard used that space for their garbage, recycling and kitchen oil. David designed a lighthouse to store the garbage and recycling, and a channel marker to store the grease.
David Dossett had single-handedly turned Martello Alley from a dark, dirty passage into a thriving urban oasis. It had taken him four months of tireless effort, but the results were nothing short of astonishing. The alley had become a symbol of what a derelict space could become when art and creativity is applied.
As the seasons changed and the years rolled on, Martello Alley continued to evolve. It became a beloved destination for tourists and locals alike, a place where people could escape the hustle and bustle of the city and bask in the beauty of urban nature and art. Martello Alley is a testament to the transformative power of one person's vision and determination to make a positive change in their community.
To see the photos of the four-month transformation of Martello Alley, visit this link:
Join us for a spooktacular adventure in the heart of downtown Kingston! It's time for "The Great Pumpkin Hunt," a free, family-friendly scavenger hunt that promises a day of fun and exploration for all ages. Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 28th, from 10 AM to 4 PM, as we embark on a thrilling quest to discover hidden treasures in our vibrant downtown district.
Twelve of your favorite downtown stores have come together to create a memorable experience, with each one contributing to a grand prize pack valued at an astounding $400. The excitement and anticipation are palpable as participants chase the elusive pumpkin symbols tucked away in each shop, crossing them off their lists with the help of friendly store employees. But the real treat comes at the end, as successful hunters are entered into a free draw for a chance to take home the prize pack.
Beyond the thrill of the hunt, "The Great Pumpkin Hunt" is a unique opportunity to explore the diverse offerings of our downtown stores. Whether you're a regular patron of these businesses or a newcomer looking to discover hidden gems, this event encourages you to explore, experience, and appreciate the vibrant community of shops that call downtown Kingston home.
So, gather your family and friends and get ready for a day filled with laughter, surprises, and the joy of discovery. "The Great Pumpkin Hunt" is the perfect way to celebrate the season and connect with the heart of our city. Don't miss out on this enchanting adventure – see you on October 28th, ready to hunt for pumpkins and make unforgettable memories!
Participating Businesses:
Martello Alley is located at 203 B Wellington Street in Downtown Kingston.
Hope to see you there!
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