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Walkers, runners, and even commuters will slow down with wide-eyed wonder when passing a section in Abram-Village along route 124.

A sailing boat, fiddle player, step dancers and harvesters of hay are just some of the 40 paintings that will line both sides of the road from the parking lot of the Evangeline Recreation Centre to the school.

“We counted about 40 homes along that stretch of road, so on both sides, there are 20 houses and paintings will be placed in front of each one with the residents’ permission,” said Theodore Theriault, the organizer. “When people come to the village they will be amazed,” he said.

In January, a meeting was held with residents to discuss the free art exhibition starting July 1.

“I think it’s an amazing project and all the members of this art group are excited because many of us are Acadian." - Alice Guergis

“We want to create an environment that encourages people to visit the area, learn and promote Acadian culture, as well as get outside and active.”

Theriault said the paintings are Acadian themed and weatherproofed to last five years.

“We are using acrylic house paint and then we will cover the paintings, which are done on a type of plastic, with a matte varnish used for outside furniture that’s waterproof.”

Local residents are invited to submit Acadian images to be painted, as well as volunteer to paint with 19 other art club members, located at the Acadian Musical Village.

Artist Lise Genova has painted a number of Acadian scenes that will be featured in the exhibit. This painting features two Acadian women. - Desiree Anstey

“There are no rights to the paintings because they may be used for postcards, been displayed for other exhibits, or even be featured in schools,” said Theriault, adding a website is being created with details on both the paintings and artists.

After the exhibit, the paintings will journey to Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer in France.

Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer is home to a colourful Acadian festival that pays homage to the soldiers that landed on its shores in 1944, at the beginning of the Battle of Normandy.

“When you walk through Saint-Aubin you can see paintings leaning against houses depicting Acadia themes, so we would like to visit and say ‘thank you’ to the Acadian veterans with our paintings. Last week, I met the mayor of Saint-Aubin so people know we intend to come.”

Theriault hopes to raise funds or sponsors to send the 40 paintings to Saint-Aubin in August 2020.

Summerside’s Alice Guergis said the paintings promote a “great” culture.

“I think it’s an amazing project and all the members of this art group are excited because many of us are Acadian. I’m painting sand castles made by Acadian children, which is a common sight on P.E.I.,” chimed Guergis, who has a specialty mastering ocean scenes using oil, acrylic or watercolours.

“Acadians are great people and I plan on attending the festival in France next year,” she added.

Desiree.anstey@journalpioneer.com