New Art Installation “What’s In A Frame?” in Ottawa’s Original Downtown

A new art installation has officially transformed the former Hudson’s Bay windows on Rideau Street, and it’s now complete and ready for the public to admire. As part of Bytown Museum’s newest project, “Ottawa 200+ Portraits, Places, and People,” the installation offers a unique way to experience Ottawa’s history while celebrating the artists, people, and places shaping the city today. Located at 73 Rideau Street, the outdoor gallery combines historic photographs of Ottawa storefronts and streetscapes with the work of contemporary artists Pascale Arpin and Emilie Darlington.

Honouring the Past, Celebrating the Present

The installation is part of the Bytown Museum’s newest exhibition, “What’s in Frame? 200+ Years of Community Portraits.” The exhibition explores Ottawa through the people, places, and stories that have helped shape the city over more than 200 years. The Rideau Street installation extends that experience outside the museum, giving passersby a sneak peek at what they can discover inside. Historic photographs of local storefronts and streetscapes have been combined with contemporary artwork to create imaginative new storefront scenes.

A New Way to Explore Downtown Ottawa

The installation is especially exciting because it brings art and history together. It’s a colourful reminder that the streets we walk today have layers of history beneath them and that the city continues to evolve everyday. The project perfectly captures its message: honouring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future. So the next time you’re walking along Rideau Street, stop by 73 Rideau Street and check out the new installation. And if it sparks your curiosity, head over to the Bytown Museum to explore more of the project and discover even more of Ottawa’s stories.