Wade Site-specific performances and installations by artists including Peter Chin, Sandra Gregson and John Greyson, curated by Sandra Rechico and Christie Pearson, co-presented by YYZ Artists Outlet, celebrate 14 Toronto wading pools. From Friday (July 7), 8 pm to Sunday (July 9), 9 pm. For details, go to www. wadetoronto.com. Rating: NNNNN
WHO : Sandra Rechico, co-curator
WHAT : Temporary artist installations at 14 Toronto wading pools
ART IN A POOL? “Yes, some pieces are interactive – like one where sound buoys make water waves into sound waves. The more you stir up the water, the louder it gets. Or Peter Chin does a dance, or in another installation rose petals cover the pool.”
YOU MEAN THE KIDS CAN’T PLAY? “Of course they can – and not just kids. The whole challenge is to make modifications so people can still use the pool and be involved. Last year people didn’t expect a pool full of Jell-o or inflatable killer sharks.”
OTHER THAN WADE, WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PUBLIC ART? “I love the City Beautification Collective. They go around in matching track outfits getting rid of the grey in public spaces. They’ll paint the post-and-rings bike posts, for example.”
FAVOURITE WATER-THEMED MOVIE? “The original Poseidon Adventure. You gotta love Shelley Winters. And Fantastic Voyage is another – you know, where they travelled inside a human body? Don’t forget, the human body is 65 per cent water.”
FAVOURITE SWIMMING POOL? “The U of T Athletic Centre pool. It has a steam room, and my co-curator, Christie Pearson, helped design it.”
FAVOURITE THINKING SPOT? “The Toronto Islands.”
FAVOURITE DRINKING SPOT? “Wherever the beer’s free.”
