The pedestrian bridge in Golden will be the site of a unique photo exhibit from September 7 and running through September 26. The exhibit will showcase a collection of black and white portraits of river users on the Kicking Horse River.
This will be the first time in the bridge’s history that a show will be shown to the public in this manner.
The portraits were taken by local artist Claire Dibble who has a long history with portrait photography and rafting.
She explained that the Kicking Horse is one of B.C.’s most heavily used rivers for commercial rafting.
“I have always been interested in portraits. At one point, I thought it would be interesting to do something here. I have a background in whitewater rafting as well, and I really liked the idea of having the show on the bridge,” Dibble said.
Between 18-20 portraits will be shown during the exhibit on the bridge.
“I guess I have always been drawn to them as viewers. People in general are really interesting, especially their faces,” Dibble said.
As for why she wanted the exhibit on the bridge, Dibble said, “ I like the idea of alternative exhibit spaces. This seems like one that is set to put things on a somewhat sheltered structure. It is a place where people may not expect to see art.
The project was made possible with the support of the Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance, Columbia Basin Trust, and Golden District Arts Council and has been approved by the Town of Golden. The portrait subjects are primarily river guides for the local rafting companies and some of the town’s keen whitewater kayakers.
A small event will be marking the show’s opening on September 7 at 5:30 p.m.
