Greenery In The National Gallery

As I mentioned yesterday, I am starting a series from the National Gallery of Canada today, from a visit taken during Canada Day. I resolved on that day to just visit one museum, as opposed to my traditional mad dash around three or four of them on Canada Day. 

The Gallery has roots stretching back into the 19th century, and its present quarters dates to 1988, a modern mix of glass and granite that well suits its purpose. This view along the south side takes in its neighbour across the street, Notre Dame.

Coming towards the main entrance I looked south, with landmarks like the Peacekeeping Monument, the American Embassy, and the Chateau Laurier visible.

This is Maman, by Louise Bourgeois.

Out of consideration for social distancing, the main entrance was the exit, and the entry point was by way of the group entrance. Inside and en route, I paused beneath the fountain that occupies one of the two courtyards and looked up to take this shot. We'll see more of it to come.

The main entrance hall has a work of art assembled within at the moment. Capsule was assembled by Rashid Johnson over the course of the pandemic. A mix of plants, books, and other materials on tiered shelving certainly makes for a very different artistic experience.

Up the long ramp I went towards the permanent galleries.

Looking out one of the windows in the glass tower at the end of the ramp, I took this shot of Major's Hill Park, with Parliament Hill beyond.