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Journal Entry: Nuit Blanche Eric Rosenhek My girlfriend and I began our Nuit Blanche journey inside the Eaton Centre. Suspended from the mall’s ceiling was a giant blue mushroom swaying gently in the circulated air. The installation was called “Into the Blue” and designed by Fujiwara Takahiro. From there, we scrambled over to Yonge-Dundas Square, where a man stood atop a wooden tower, shining a spotlight on random citizens. Those who found themselves in the spotlight were given “15 Seconds.” Some danced, while others froze in terror. To add some excitement, a man in a gorilla costume made hilarious attempts for more time in the bright light. Heading north on Yonge and then west on Carlton, we found ourselves in front of Maple Leaf Gardens. The one-time hockey shrine was transformed into a sight of artistic expression (Luis Jacob’s “Without Persons”). Inside were two video screens, which featured two grey blobs having a conversation about the future. Next stop: “Zombies in Condoland.” The area was filled with children and adults paying homage to the undead. This was followed by a walk down Yonge St., where we took one last look at the brightly illuminated Sam the Record Man sign. After meeting up with some friends, we went over to City Hall for “Stereoscope.” This was definitely the highlight of Nuit Blanche 2008. Project Blinkenlights turned a bureaucratic structure into a lighting spectacle. Images danced off the building’s windows. Everyone tilted their heads upwards and watched in amazement. We visited many more projects and installations during the night – “Stock Extravaganza,” which was housed inside a garbage receptacle at Bay and Dundas, “Conversation #2” at the McDonald Block Building, the various exhibits at Ryerson University, plus many more. “Sound Forest” at Queen’s Park was a unique experience. Not only for the singing, but also for the young gentleman who got stuck in a tree and refused to jump down. After much coaxing, he took the leap and landed safely. The gathered crowd applauded. Nuit Blanche not only showcased unique art, but it also brought out the entire city. It is the one event where anybody could take part. You don’t have to be an art lover. You don’t have to be open minded. The event was a chance for every Torontonian to embrace the city’s artistic culture. Over one million people took advantage of this glorious opportunity. For me, this was my second Nuit Blanche and it certainly won’t be my last. I cannot wait for next year’s version – Saturday, October 3, 2009. |