Inauguration of the Narrows Bridge Mural on July 15, 2020
It all started a year ago in a conversation about beautifying the village of Fitch Bay.
While talking with friends, Marie-José LeBlanc came up with the idea of creating a mural on the side wall of the hardware store. The owners of the store were approached and it appears that Mrs. Frenière was happy to give the coveted space since she shared the same dream. It was Mr. Frenière who suggested the theme of the covered bridge by evoking all the good memories that originated at this emblematic place.
All that remained was to find an artist!
That’s when friends suggested Gretchen Hatfield, who has experience in painting theatre sets, therefore with large formats.
With the team and the theme in place, Marie-José and Suzanne Tremblay found the necessary funds to make the dream come true. Together, they solicited donations from private donors, registered for the cultural funding program offered by the MRC Memphrémagog and sought the municipality’s help.
In June 2020, Gretchen was able to begin the work and within a month, she had transformed the wall into a work of art. She recalled the happy days she spent crossing the bridge to get to her grandmother’s cottage on the lake. Many people stopped to share their memories while she was at work.
Today, a plaque was placed on the wall to name and thank the donors. As a final touch, Marie-José planted bright yellow lilies along the base of the wall. Come see the mural (at the corner of Remick and Sheldon roads). It’s a perfect place for a selfie!
Thank you for this community effort that has had an impact and has given new impetus to the revitalization of Fitch Bay.
Watch the video on the making of the mural.