Great Blue Heron (2019)

Bryn Finer , Donald Gunn

22500 McLean Ave, Richmond, BC

Area: Hamilton
Location: East side of the park, along pedestrian path.

Materials: Powder coated laser-cut steel. Welded.

Program: Community
Ownership: Civic
Sponsored By: Hamilton Community Association

Description of Work

The installation is a piece of functional art for McLean Park in Hamilton. It is essentially a park bench that incorporates a sculpture of a Great Blue heron. The installation is intended to be a focal point within the park. It is also intended to be a place to sit and relax, a meeting place for park users both young and old. The choice of the heron as the sculptural piece is important as it is intended to remind locals that, even in industrialized and heavily populated communities, we need to acknowledge our green spaces and the health of the environment. While herons still live in Richmond, with their need for clean water, food and places to roost and breed, all is well.

Artist Statement

The Great Blue Heron is an enduring symbol for the City of Richmond and reflects the rich natural heritage of the Fraser River delta. As a native species to this region, its continued presence relies on clean rivers, places where it can hunt undisturbed, plentiful food sources and safe places to nest. This work aims to remind us of how we can all do our part in protecting the environment for future generations to enjoy.