For many people, Creston's two grain elevators are a pretty big deal. I've never been one of those people. They dominate the skyline, sure. (Actually, come to think of it, they are the skyline.) Apparently, they are the two most westerly wooden grain elevators in Canada.....
But, remember when Creston Builders and their "yard" of outbuildings was located where Canyon Street curves to join Northwest Boulevard? Once they moved, and the outbuildings were torn down, we ended up with a great view across the valley floor to the mountains beyond. I've always thought that demolishing these old elevators would open up a really great panoramic view to the west.
And, come on, those buildings are pretty dilapidated; I can recall driving by and noticing that the easterly wall on the white (I'm being generous here saying "white") elevator was bulging towards the street. Over time, you could actually see the siding start to peel away.
Recently the Columbia Basin Trust announced that they had purchased the elevators, and would be restoring them. https://ourtrust.org/our-work/heritage/creston-grain-elevators/ I was glad, because I'm pretty sure my views are not commonly shared, and ultimately if the majority of people want grain elevators that's good enough for me.
As far as I know, no decision has been made as to how the restored elevators will be used. Kunze Gallery is located in a building at the base of the "red" elevator, and it would be nice to think that they could move into the new space, along with other related businesses, but I guess we'll have to wait and see.
Not loving the elevators didn't keep me from recreating them in my art (I'm not a monster).
I like the idea of showing them as they currently appear, rather than in the pristine version which no longer applies.
Obviously, I'm not the only Arts Council artist who's been inspired in this fashion:
There are lots more examples, of course. Check out the local art venues https://www.crestonvalleyartscouncil.ca/groups-and-galleries to see what else Creston artists are up to.
Comments