TIMMINS - One back alley in Timmins has a new colourful new look.
The alleyway next to Comtec Computers at 33 Spruce St. S. was a gathering place for artists and those looking to leave their mark on a community mural.
Danielle Turgeon, who contributed a person-sized mushroom to the mural, said she was inspired by nature all around Timmins.
“I like going out in the forest and seeing what I can find, and lately, it’s mushroom season, so that’s my inspiration as of late,” she said.
The chance to get out in the sunshine and do something in the community was a draw for her.
“I’ve always been an artistic person and seeing as this was a community event, with supplies included and stuff, that’s fricking amazing,” said Turgeon. “I thought I’d come try it.”
The qualifications to help paint the mural were simple: show up and join in.
“People are in and out doing a few different pieces and leaving their impact on the wall,” said Meagan Baranyk, the city's lead for the Community Safety and Well-Being plan. “Everybody’s just contributing their own thing and having pride in their artwork.”
Many of the people painting the alleyway are currently experiencing homelessness and addiction.
The goal of the mural project is to give people who spend time in the area to feel some ownership and belonging.
“It’s that belonging when you’re standing next to someone you may not have something in common with, and you’re doing the same activity, it adds that belonging piece,” she said.
While there are many different pieces with different styles and ideas on the walls, the hope is that it will come together as it fills with art.
The project was created as part of a security assessment that identified ways to make the area safer for those coming and going through the allies.
“What could we do in order to make it a space where people feel comfortable, so we did practical solutions, like lighting, so it’s not so dreary,” said Baranyk. “This is definitely a part of the solution and includes that piece of belonging, as well.”
There is no word on whether organizers might do this in other spots around the city.
