The Hub Project - Princess Street Sidewalk Project

The Hub Project is a multiphase initiative designed to connect neighbourhoods through public art by making a series of temporary and permanent improvements to the intersection of Princess and Division Streets, known as “The Hub”.

The Princess Street Sidewalk Project is a permanent work that will be located along the extended sidewalk on the north side of Princess Street as part of The Hub Project, and the City is seeking public feedback on three shortlisted artists’ preliminary proposals. A jury selected Christine Dewancker, Don Maynard, and Brandon Vickerd for this project.

Christine Dewancker - Clinamina Towers

Don Maynard - Murmurations

Brandon Vickerd - The Wilds of Kingston

Project Goals

• That the artwork responds to the area’s counterculture history and architecture including the origin story of Princess Towers as a Queen’s University alternative, communal living residence, and reflect the energy of the dynamic social scene for which “The Hub” is known.
• The artwork should also be conceptually and visually innovative and engage the viewer.
• The artists must also respond to community feedback generated through The Hub Project engagement in 2019.

Site Context

• The area, commonly known as “The Hub” draws students in year after year and is home to a collection of clubs, pubs, live music venues, record stores, restaurants, and a grocery store as well as Princess Towers.
• The proposals must consider the location and site that encompasses a unique character and eclectic landscape that embraces diversity, history, and an active nightlife culture.

Find more information on the project context, goals and site considerations.

This is the second round of public consultation related to The Hub Project and follows a series of in-person sessions and online opportunities facilitated through Get Involved Kingston in 2019. The City heard from 350 people who shared input and ideas regarding themes and types of public art that could be integrated into the intersection of Princess and Division Streets. A summary report of the public engagement can be found on The Hub Project webpage.