The installation of the ring in the heart of downtown Montreal was announced with great fanfare last week. This project is referred to as a “symbol” and a gathering place conducive to a “strong connection”. As the emphasis was placed on the symbolism of the work during its presentation, it is necessary to interpret its meaning beyond its strictly aesthetic aspect.
Posted at 2:00 p.m.
Although the scale of the ring is impressive, its shape makes the interpreter pensive. The circle, here empty, is generally the symbol of unity, cohesion and harmony. In this sense, we can see the representation of living together in Montreal, never really achieved, but to which we aspire collectively.
However, this vision of harmony is a bit short and the immense void around which this living together revolves is perplexing.
In fact, isn’t this what causes so many disagreements among many Quebecers on the issue of social cohesion, a blank reference as a common benchmark?
The symbolism of the ring is in this sense symptomatic of a very tenuous conception of citizenship and of living together which takes more the appearance of a “living-alongside” rather than a real exchange from references shared by citizens.
A Montreal work?
The simplicity of the form is also reminiscent of other public works of art found in many major cities around the world. The particularity of these works is that they are not marked by any historical or cultural depth.
It is indeed clear that the ring could float in any metropolis and it would find its place there.
At a time when we are constantly calling for diversity, it would have been interesting for this “symbolic” project for Montreal to bear witness to the particularism of the city.
This simplistic form and this lack of cultural specificity are typical of an era prone to self-denial. As the traditional symbols carrying meaning, such as those linked to religion or history, are now only tolerated as heritage residues, architectural firms are turning to simple figures that refer to everything and nothing time.
It therefore becomes impossible to create dissatisfaction or to exclude communities that do not feel represented by the work. Thus, the Place Ville Marie esplanade will be a consensual place that will serve as a means of attracting workers and tourists, in short dollars, to the city center.
That said, it is to be hoped that the ring will fulfill its economic function. As for its symbolic significance, we have to say that the creation of a common referent that carries meaning for Quebecers and Montrealers will be for the next time.