In 1999, artist Tom Andrich wanted to work on a larger scale project than his
canvasses. He had done some large scale set designs when he was a teenager.
Tom applied to do a Boissevain Mural but was turned down by the town for 'not
having enough experience.' So he decided to look for opportunities closer to
home right here in Winnipeg. This site was a 'tryout wall' for Take Pride
Winnipeg. Needless to say, they were quite happy with it, and Tom has done
several commissions for Take Pride since then.
It's a little difficult getting Tom to talk about this wall, because he's
critical of it and it's NOT one of his favourite pieces. Tom: "I don't like that
one. When I did it I thought it was OK, but I would paint it much differently
now. People still enjoy it but I don't think it has the quality my stuff has
now."
It was rendered in a sepia colour tone to bring out the feelings of that era.
The borders are a beautiful added touch. Tom: "I tried to get historical stuff
in there like the Royal Bank Building. I was trying to show a view of Main
Street that you would have then, standing by the museum and looking south
towards Portage and Main. It's the Osborne Street Streetcar, with the ladies in
their fashionable attire for the day and their parasols. I used the same Penny
Farthing high wheel bicycle photo reference for the St. John's Park Mural." (see
1236 Main)
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