Proposed public art piece near Ferry Building Gallery

IMAGE: Rendering of proposed art piece (approximate size and scale) in the proposed location on the grassy area east of the Ferry Building Gallery (1414 Argyle Avenue).

About the proposed public art piece near Ferry Building Gallery

The District of West Vancouver’s Public Art Advisory Panel (PAAP) proposes a new public art piece by artist Martha Sturdy on the grassy area east of the Ferry Building Gallery, situated across from Earls Ambleside restaurant.

The proposed artwork consists of two red cubes, measuring 16’9” in height and 7’1” in width, balanced atop each other. Constructed from powder-coated ¼” aluminum, the artwork will be finished in fire-engine red.

The proposed piece is a vibrant red to contrast with the natural surroundings and to stand out against the backdrop of Stanley Park and the surrounding environment. The design features two balanced cubes, intended to provoke thoughtful engagement from viewers. The red colour is intended to evoke positive feelings of happiness, courage, and optimism.

About the Public Art Advisory Panel

The Public Art Advisory Panel (PAAP) is a community-based advisory panel that works with District of West Vancouver (District) staff on the implementation and enhancement of the Public Art Program.

Thank you for your input

The Public Art Advisory Panel asked for community input on this proposal.

An online comment form was open from September 10 to October 4, 2024. Staff also heard from the public via phone and email comments.

Staff will share all community feedback with Council in a recommendation report being presented in fall 2024.

Artist statement

An unwavering optimist, Martha Sturdy has long observed life through a positive lens. Sturdy, now in her eighties, is of the opinion that she has a responsibility to share her perspective with future generations. This new sculpture incorporates the pure simplicity of block-like cubes, stacked precariously, one corner upon the other.

Reminiscent of the exceptional precariousness of life, the cubes are teetering, on the brink of tumbling to the ground, yet holding on in an upright, stable position. Rendered in a powerful, vibrant red, the colour is selected for its emotive qualities, embodying the richness of life, happiness, love, and connection. Through this intentional combination of primary shape and colour, Sturdy’s work underlines the power of an optimistic perspective.

About the artist

Martha Sturdy is a Vancouver-born contemporary sculptor who is inspired by the coast and mountains of British Columbia.

Her decades-long career began with wearable sculpture, and she has been featured prominently in many international publications, including Vogue Magazine and the Wall Street Journal.

Her large-format sculptures have been internationally exhibited and she has been honoured to receive numerous awards in recognition of her work, including induction into the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts, an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Emily Carr University, and the Governor General’s Golden Jubilee Award. She currently resides in West Vancouver.