In
1924 Kitchener's old town hall was demolished and replaced by a beautiful
neoclassical structure. William Schmaltz of Kitchener was the architect
responsible for the design of the first Kitchener City Hall.
Kitchener's city hall became known as a
kind of oasis in the downtown area. The large well kept lawn that spread
out in front with its flowers and trees was indeed a relief in an
otherwise brick and asphalt environment. At Christmastime the city hall
was decorated with lights and garlands making it a winter time focal
point. By the 1960's it became clear that the city had out grown the old
building. It was overcrowded, it was cold in the winter and sweltering in
the summer, and it had no elevator. In 1973 the building was demolished to
make way for Market Square.
After completing the painting of the
Waterloo Train Station, the story of Kitchener's original city hall was
brought to my attention. Being an admirer of classical architecture and
history in particular, my interest grew until at last I decided to paint
it. I set out to create a work of art that would somehow capture the
spirit of a time and a building fondly remembered by its' citizens. This
was to be a memorial painting.
Research was required for the
surrounding buildings, the cars, people, and their clothing. All had to be
precise and match a period of time which I decided would be 1927.
