The highly anticipated BMO expansion is well on its way and in celebration of its progress, the city of Calgary has unveiled a new art piece aptly named ‘Spirit of Water.’
Meant to resemble a larger-than-life droplet, this 70-foot-tall sculpture was designed by U.K.-based artist, Gerry Judah, and weighs a whopping 112,000 pounds.
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Composed of 200 verticle steel tubes, this ‘dramatic’ display is described as being a potential “beacon for visitors in the exterior plaza space,” and was selected from a pool of 218 submissions from all around the world.
According to the Calgary Municipal Land Corporation, this installation will be the focal point of BMO’s 40,000-square-foot gathering space, located on the south side of the building.
“CMLC has been fortunate to be involved with many exciting public art projects in downtown’s east end over the years, both temporary and permanent, and we are thrilled to have an artist of Gerry’s calibre supporting the BMO Centre expansion project,” said Kate Thompson, CMLC’s President & CEO.
“Spirit of Water has historic and contemporary meaning that relates uniquely to the site, just as the architecture of the BMO Centre’s new pavilion and canopy does. This iconic sculpture will perfectly complement the design of the building and elevate the guest experience.”
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As for the price tag? It certainly won’t be cheap!
“The BMO Centre expansion’s public art budget of $2.25M dollars was guided by The City of Calgary’s policy for funding, acquisition and management of public art in Calgary, and is inclusive of all fees, expenses, fabrication costs, delivery and installation,” the CMLC explained, adding that it will finally come to life in the spring of 2024.
So, what do you think, Calgary? Are you excited to see it in all of its glory? Let us know and maybe we’ll see you at its big unveiling.
It won’t be long now!
