‘Stackhouse,’ by world-renowned artist Anish Kapoor of London, England, is crafted at The Forks on Friday, January 27, 2017. (CHRISD.CA)
WINNIPEG — Warming huts at The Forks are looking more like their artist renderings these days as architectural teams craft their structures as part of the international competition.
“I’m amazed at the creativity and variety of the submissions we received this year,” said Paul Jordan, CEO of The Forks Renewal Corporation.
“There’s a fully-enclosed beach, a hut that spans the entire width of the Red River Mutual Trail, and a giant lantern suspended over a snow tunnel. It’s great to see that we continue to receive original designs from all over the world, right here in Winnipeg.”
Three huts from Nova Scotia, Chicago, and Netherlands were chosen by a blind jury this year to join others, including one designed by world-renowned sculptor and artist Anish Kapoor.
Teams were finishing up their designs on Friday under colder temperatures and bright skies. The same day the Red River Mutual Trail reopened after last week’s unusual January thaw.
“We know Winnipeggers are enthusiastic about winter activities,” Jordan added.
The University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Architecture is represented again this year with its submission. “Warmhut,” as its name would suggest, will literally keep you warm inside with the help of a tiny stove.
“We believe that the opportunity provided to our students by being part of this design-build collaboration provides a highly unique educational opportunity to enhance what is taught in the classroom; we are once again thankful to The Forks for allowing us to be part of this exciting event,” said Jonathan Beddoes, interim dean.
The six new huts will join others from previous years on the river trail by Sunday. For more on the competition, visit WarmingHuts.com.
