Long story short…
On the summer day in 2013, after we launched the MV Columbia, I was approached to design a sculpture for her. From the beginning I was skeptical. In my experience, it’s hard to trust that a project will materialize. But because I am an artist and a dreamer, I could not refuse such a great opportunity to build something for so many humans to enjoy. I never could have dreamt the project would stretch out for almost three years.
Throughout the design process, I came to realize what an important role that art plays in my life and that public sculpture is a way to bring this magic to others. And so I trusted in the future and dreamt of something that could communicate to the viewers a tremendous journey; a story about camaraderie and hard work. Something that would have the humans consider where objects come from and that not everything is built by robots, yet.
Once the design and concept was complete, I was asked to apply for grants which would partially cover the expense of the project. After one failure with BC Arts council, I was able to secure a $10,000 loan from CKCA Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance with the remainder of the funds coming from the partners that had initiated the project. The moment I told them the good news they backpedaled and informed me that although they really wanted the project to go through, the funds they had promised were no longer available.
These are the moments when I question everything about being an artist. Throughout this project I have fought and won and fought and lost. I have designed something I want to share with our community and the travelers who pass through. I have done everything in my power to bring this project to life… almost … and so in one last effort, my friends and I hope my community will gather around me to celebrate the arts and culture in our area and to raise funds for the project that has broken and healed my heart time and again.
Interested in attending or sharing your work? Art Party Nakusp on Facebook
For a more in depth look at the sculpture project check out:
Looking Aft paper model, finished sculpture will be mounted below the wheel house and entirely woven from stainless steel.
Watch the build in dry dock: http://www.waterbridgesteel.com/timelapseland5.mp4
Time-lapse build on the water: http://www.waterbridgesteel.com/timelapsewater.mp4