Description
Animals etched and sculpted out of concrete found on the walls, columns, and roof guide us through this building. Christopher Griffin worked with the Ottawa Field-Naturalists' Club and the Canadian Museum of Nature to create a list of wildlife living in and around the Glebe's waterways. Each floor of the parking garage has its own theme and way finding system:
Floor 1 Fishes: Dow's Lake
Floor 2 Amphibians and reptiles: Patterson Creek
Floor 3 Birds: Rideau Canal
Floor 4 Mammals: Brown's Inlet
Each animal is native to the Glebe and represents the diversity of species and ecosystems that exist downtown. It is easy to forget that city dwellers are living in close proximity to many wild animals. Griffin’s artwork reminds us to look out for these species and to celebrate the rich natural environment around us.
Glebe resident Christopher Griffin has been creating unique concrete murals and sculptures for many years. His drawing style is inspired by ancient art found on cave walls. His images of birds, fish and mammals hold personal meanings for the artist and often reference biodiversity.