The National Art Gallery is a special place to both of us. For myself, I've grown up with it and it's one of my favorite places in the city. Denis has spent many hours there sitting in contemplation, thinking undoubtedly artistic thoughts. ;)
One of my favourite pieces from the gallery stems from my first visit to the gallery as a child. I was struck by the realism of the camels in this piece by Nancy Graves. I think my fascination with animals and desire to ride a camel probably played some part.
Later, I fell in love with the Klimt pieces that were displayed.
Denis' favourite installation is the Rideau Street Convent Chapel. According to Wikipedia, The Rideau Street Chapel was part of the Convent of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart on Rideau Street in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. It was demolished in May of 1972, but its interior was salvaged, due to a public appeal to preserve the architectural beauty it displays. This interior is now on permanent display at the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa. Its careful preservation gives visitors the impression that they are actually entering the Chapel as it was before it was demolished. Its stained-glass windows are illuminated with artificial lighting, giving the illusion of outside sunlight, even though the Chapel is actually located in the middle of the Gallery, without any direct access to outdoor light.
We initially wanted to get married in this Chapel, but unfortunately, the museum did not approve. If you get a chance, we invite you to spend some time at the gallery before the ceremony, and perhaps take the mental image of the chapel with you as you enter our setting. It's well worth a visit in any case.
