Although, this project absolutely rings close to my heart and I have an immense interest in the nature of art and its related topic du jour, I in no way wish to attempt to define or defend contemporary art any further than accommodating it.  I feel this would compromise the architectural integrity of the scheme by pursuing such controversial and personal lines of questioning.  I am therefore creating an endeavour to provide Montreal with a school for fine arts that answers more to the Urban Godfather than to the critics and academia that perpetuate the “what is art?” debate, which is, by nature, a self-perpetuating discussion. 

I have selected the Old Port of Montreal, because of a particular sympathy with the innate bohemian periphery that it proffers to art as a foundation for creation, in addition to providing the potential of a sensitive urban spine for this district and its progressive revival.  As of yet, I have narrowed by site selection as confirmed to north of rue de la Commune and to one of three sites.  With such fertile history and ambience in this area, and a distinct dialogue between the starboard and port side of de la Commune, I anticipate a rich program with opportunity to not only explore the exhilarating opportunity that is afforded by a program that incorporates exhibition galleries, a library, a bookstore, café facilities and the ever-desirable art studio among numerous other elements to the extent that I cannot wait to have my cake and eat it too.