Perhaps you have noticed how R\u00e9action en cha\u00eene seems to ripple across the landscape. This artwork is a vibrant cascade of engineering precision. It reflects the heart of the \u00c9cole de Technologie Sup\u00e9rieure.
R\u00e9action en cha\u00eene was created by Ludovic Boney. Boney was born in Wendake. This Huron village is near Qu\u00e9bec City. He studied sculpture at the Maison des m\u00e9tiers d\u2019art de Qu\u00e9bec. Later, he cofounded Bloc 5. This was an artistic workshop and production cooperative. Boney has created about twenty public art pieces. You can find them at the Mus\u00e9e National des Beaux-Arts du Qu\u00e9bec and other locations.
R\u00e9action en cha\u00eene stretches over 55 meters. It is a focal point on the engineering school’s campus. The sculpture evokes the precision of engineering. It shows the logic of repeating sequences.
Look closely. The artwork’s visual path creates a graphic and chromatic line through space. Its varying heights produce a fluid, almost liquid motion. The repetition of shapes gives an impression of speed. This reinforces the dynamism.
The ellipses in the line encourage viewers to mentally complete the sequence. It is like solving a problem. From the windows of nearby buildings, the sculpture gains a new form of expression. The repeating rectangular arches blend. They create a smooth and delicate ensemble. This gives it an impressionistic effect.
The artwork’s horizontality allows visual integration. It also respects the flow of users. It invites people to sit. The green space becomes a place for pauses. It is a space for discussions. The sculpture lives in and exploits the space. It invites viewers to make it their own.
Consider the educational system. Learning, creation and graduation are the result of sustained efforts. R\u00e9action en cha\u00eene sits at the center of the campus. It evokes the path and rigor required for studies.
The sculpture is entirely made of aluminum. It consists of 556 arches. Each arch is anchored to an aluminum structure. The arches slide on sleeves and are fixed with stainless steel bolts. Each section has its rail anchored to concrete slabs. The artwork is painted in eight colors. This uses a powder coating process.
R\u00e9action en cha\u00eene is more than just art. It enhances campus life. It also benefits other users. It offers a pause and silence at the heart of their work or studies. It opened in September 2020. The artwork reflects the school’s openness to the community. It is meant for businesses, partners and residents.
As you leave R\u00e9action en cha\u00eene, think about the blend of art and engineering. Consider how it enhances the environment. It provides a space for reflection and interaction.