NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF NEWMARKET
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Newmarket’s Riverwalk Commons will be getting a new public art installation known as Newmarket’s Community Living Room.
This place-making public art installation was inspired by former Mayor of Newmarket Tony Van Bynen, who held his Mayor in the Square public engagement sessions in Downtown Newmarket for the past 12 years. Former Mayor Van Bynen attributed the downtown core as the living room and heart of the community.
The Community Living Room will be located near the HollisWealth Story Pod, now known as Van Bynen Square. This public art piece will be a fully functional gathering space for the community and will feature traditional furniture and objects made of concrete.
“This Community Living Room represents the significant achievement in public service by former Mayor, Tony Van Bynen, who served the community for 18 years — three years as councillor, three years as regional councillor and 12 years as mayor,” says Esther Armchuk, Acting Chief Administrative Officer. “Mayor Tony Van Bynen was always an advocate for public art and in keeping with the Town’s Cultural Master Plan, a public art installation is fitting to pay tribute to the former mayor.”
A Community Living Room was chosen as the public art piece in the downtown area because a living room plays a vital role in every home. The living room is a place where family and friends connect, socialize, relax, laugh and create lasting memories. Newmarket’s vibrant Main Street and welcoming historic downtown serves as the living room and heart of the community.
The Community Living Room will act as a meeting space for residents and friends to enjoy, engage in conversation and forge new friendships. It will be funded through the public art contributions and is expected to be completed in the summer of 2019.
For more information, call 905-895-5193.
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