churchill park public art project - edge of the woods - hamilton, … · 2019. 3. 12. · city of...

CITY OF HAMILTON | TOURISM & CULTURE CHURCHILL PARK PUBLIC ART PROJECT l ~l~ I ARTIST PROPOSAL Title: Edge of the Woods Artist: David General ARTIST CONCEPT STATEMENT Edge of the Woods (my second working title for the proposed artworks) is designed so that visitors can interact with the four human figures of this piece. The Edge of the Woods is a Haudenosaunee ceremony, which is used to welcome in those who are visiting or seeking refuge within our territory. This ceremony acknowledges the struggle of those we are welcoming, by clearing their eyes, ears, and throat of grief. This act is a symbol of building empathy and understanding between nations. Four figures, in four colours representing races of mankind, the four direction and the four colours of the Medicine Wheel are poised to carry on a conversation with any visitor inclined to study the symbols and text that adorns each figure. For the time being, I will call the figure in yellow granite – Future Generations. Although we cannot change the history that was written before us, we must be reflective of the lessons, sacrifices, and tremendous acts of heroism it has imparted. It is now our responsibility as the current generation, to heal these wounds and work towards creating a world for future generations that is founded in peace and understanding. Gifts from the Land is the current title for the red granite artwork. It speaks of inherent rights, which provide all mankind resources needed to survive and thrive. It is also an example of sharing bounty provided by each season - making sure to take only what is needed. The black granite figure is the Storyteller. Storytellers allow for an exchange of experience and an insight into their spirit. It is through the very act of listening, and exchange, where we gain greater understanding and respect for each other’s lived experiences. The messages he carries range from unimaginable atrocities to the heroic deeds by those who brought light in times darkness. The white granite artwork is the Greeting. Whether viewed a greeting or bidding adieu – a handshake is a universal expression of welcome, respect, friendship and thank you. A handshake can begin an interesting discussion and a departure in which you carry greater insight and understanding of matters and events, which you knew nothing about. It has always made me smile to watch my grandchildren and great grandchildren run around and through public artworks I’ve created. It is an art piece intended to bring learning, insight into the narratives we carry, and connection across the diversity of our cultures, while acknowledging the struggle we share as humanity. 1 OF 4

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CITY OF HAMILTON | TOURISM & CULTURE

CHURCHILL PARK PUBLIC ART PROJECT

l~l~I

ARTIST PROPOSAL Title: Edge of the Woods Artist: David General

ARTIST CONCEPT STATEMENT Edge of the Woods (my second working title for the proposed artworks) is designed so that visitors can interact with the four human figures of this piece. The Edge of the Woods is a Haudenosaunee ceremony, which is used to welcome in those who are visiting or seeking refuge within our territory. This ceremony acknowledges the struggle of those we are welcoming, by clearing their eyes, ears, and throat of grief. This act is a symbol of building empathy and understanding between nations.

Four figures, in four colours representing races of mankind, the four direction and the four colours of the Medicine Wheel are poised to carry on a conversation with any visitor inclined to study the symbols and text that adorns each figure.

For the time being, I will call the figure in yellow granite – Future Generations. Although we cannot change the history that was written before us, we must be reflective of the lessons, sacrifices, and tremendous acts of heroism it has imparted. It is now our responsibility as the current generation, to heal these wounds and work towards creating a world for future generations that is founded in peace and understanding.

Gifts from the Land is the current title for the red granite artwork. It speaks of inherent rights, which provide all mankind resources needed to survive and thrive. It is also an example of sharing bounty provided by each season - making sure to take only what is needed.

The black granite figure is the Storyteller. Storytellers allow for an exchange of experience and an insight into their spirit. It is through the very act of listening, and exchange, where we gain greater understanding and respect for each other’s lived experiences. The messages he carries range from unimaginable atrocities to the heroic deeds by those who brought light in times darkness.

The white granite artwork is the Greeting. Whether viewed a greeting or bidding adieu – a handshake is a universal expression of welcome, respect, friendship and thank you. A handshake can begin an interesting discussion and a departure in which you carry greater insight and understanding of matters and events, which you knew nothing about.

It has always made me smile to watch my grandchildren and great grandchildren run around and through public artworks I’ve created. It is an art piece intended to bring learning, insight into the narratives we carry, and connection across the diversity of our cultures, while acknowledging the struggle we share as humanity.

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