New Ottawa Mural Honours City's Diverse History with Chinese Aces Story
A new mural in Ottawa's Glebe neighbourhood pays tribute to the city's diverse history. Local artist Ali Wong created 'Chinese Aces Skate the Canal', incorporating the iconic Rideau Canal even before knowing about the team's story.
Ali Wong, a long-time Glebe resident, drew inspiration from old $5 bills and original Tim Hortons cups to evoke nostalgia. The mural depicts the Chinese Aces, Ottawa's first all-Chinese hockey team, who played from 1941 to 1946. Remarkably, some team members had direct connections to the Glebe, including the Wong family who owned stores and a laundry on Bank Street.
The mural is located on the wall of Fairy Dreams Bridal, once the site of the nostalgic Glebe Emporium. The Glebe BIA supported the project, securing funding and backing the artist. Irene Mei, owner of Fairy Dreams Bridal, endorses showcasing Ottawa's diversity through the arts. Before the canal was a skateway, the Chinese Aces practised there and collected donations for war relief in China through their games.
Tia Wong's 'Chinese Aces Skate the Canal' mural stands as a testament to Ottawa's rich history and cultural diversity. It serves as a reminder of the Chinese Aces' legacy and the Glebe's connection to the team, while also celebrating the neighbourhood's past and present.
