It was my idea to go this exhibition, as I was quite interested to see the industrial history of a certain zone of the downtown core. The idea was to see the pedigree of familiar buildings, the changes they have undergone over the years; in purpose, ownership, function, etc. Also of great interest was to be able to see the machinery involved in the production of goods from the late Industrial Revolution in Montreal.
What we saw was quite a bit different than I had hoped for. It wasn't terrible, but seemed like a shadow of what I was greatly anticipating.
We saw a series of photographic collections of the people that were experiencing daily life in the region. There were a few artifacts like invitations to union sponsored company outings. This was a depressed region up until the last few decades evidently. It has been somewhat gentrified by the "Village" and other developments.
It was interesting to see, but not really at all what I was hoping for. I will say that I wouldn't have wanted to see it with anyone other than I-330 as I truly enjoy her company, and the experience we bring to each other from these outings.
If I were to create the exhibition in my own fashion, it would be quite different. Imagine being in a cavernous old brick structure smelling somewhat musty and presenting itself as dilapidated but structurally sound. There would be the same photographs, however they would not be the focal point. They would be accoutrement's to immense, dangerous Industrial Revolution manufacturing artifacts lit from darkness in sharp pools of piercing light set on an unhewn floor.
The stark shadows and bleakness would illustrate the conditions under which these people existed. It would also be interesting to have samples of tools that were used, and to make them available. This way people could feel the mass involved when it came to wielding them, for such minimal pay under such terrible labour circumstances. By not having artifacts on display that I felt a visceral connection to, I felt removed from what the experience was meant to be. Viewing an experience from a van during African Lion Safari, as opposed to experiencing a personal, visceral interpretation of life in the time. Somewhat "Disney-fied".
All in all, I expected more, but it was still interesting.
The labour conditions could then become a jumping off point to discuss the general socio-economic situations that were part and parcel with employment conditions at the time. After all, this is how workers today have the rights they do. In my considered opinion, unions need to realise that their time is over as they no longer need to fight in such a way for the rights of their membership.
The fight has been won. Time to stand on your own merits.
I'm looking forward to a croissant tomorrow morning.
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