Post-war bungalows, also known as “victory houses,” were built across Canada to house returning veterans and their families. The Alexander Drive Project by PEI artist and author Sandy Kowalik tells the story of one such neighbourhood built in 1948 in Charlottetown. Published by Island Studies Press, the book will be launched on September 16, at 7 pm, in the Faculty Lounge, Main Building Room 201, University of Prince Edward Island. 

The Alexander Drive Project began in the garden. As Kowalik dug, she found bits of china, bottle caps, coins, marbles, glass, and a few action figure arms. Using these materials, she created annual assemblages called “What the Garden Doesn’t Swallow.” These backyard discoveries led Kowalik to research both the origins of the objects and her neighbourhood in her new book, The Alexander Drive Project.

This social history chronicles how the street has evolved over the last 75 years, touching upon themes of affordable housing, supportive neighbourhoods, mental health, addiction, violence, changing demographics, gender roles, and the impact of climate change. Kowalik blends archival research, resident interviews, and photographs, along with her series of garden assemblages to create a portrait of how the neighbourhood came to be and of the people who call(ed) it home.

Sandy Kowalik is a Fine Art honours graduate of the Ontario College of Art, working primarily in sculpture and assemblage. A native of Hamilton, Ontario, she has made her permanent home in Charlottetown, PEI, since 1986. Kowalik's work can be found in the Canada Council Art Bank, the Prince Edward Island Art Bank, the Confederation Centre of the Arts Gallery's permanent collection, and private collections worldwide.

The event is free, and all are welcome. Thanks to Bookmark, books will be available for purchase. For more information, contact Bren Simmers at Island Studies Press, 902-566-0386 or ispstaff@upei.ca.