Japanese-Canadian Fishermen's Memorial "Wind" (2002)

Junichiro Iwase

5180 Westwater Dr.

Area: Steveston
Location: On the Imperial Landing, west of Britannia Heritage Shipyards.

Materials: Bronze, black patina, concrete base

Program: Donation
Ownership: Civic
Sponsored By: City of Richmond, 32 corporate sponsors, 223 individual sponsors, Japanese Canadian National Museum, Wakayama Kenjin-Kai.
Also Known As: Japanese Fishermen's Memorial

Description of Work

This statue is dedicated to the pioneering Japanese fishermen, and the generations that followed, for their contributions to the fishing industry and British Columbia. Erected on the occasion of the 125th anniversary of the arrival of the first Japanese to Canada, this statue commemorates the spirit of these fishermen and the legacy of their courage, perseverance, leadership and accomplishments.

Artist Statement

The seated figure represents a working class fishermen who is humble, modest and hardworking. The title of the work “Wind” is a metaphor for human endurance and resilience during times of difficulty.