By Gagandeep Ghuman
Published: October 22, 2018
The District of Squamish is looking for a permanent location for “This Beautiful Day” art installation that is currently installed in Downtown Squamish.
“We are working with the Biennale to consider potential permanent locations for the installation, including its existing location. Further discussion will continue at the Public Art Committee meeting in November,” said Rachel Boguski, the district’s communication coordinator.
The “This Beautiful Day” piece was part of the two-year Biennale project, which included an emerging artists residency program. The intention was to foster young, emerging international talent and to dedicate and gift the art to the community, she said.
These artists-in-residency also worked in collaboration with many individuals, groups (including First Nations) in Squamish, she added.
Other pieces from this program include the Salish Sea Lab canoe installation at the Squamish Adventure Centre, the Crossing Borders Maa’Bar suitcase installation at Quest University Canada.
The Hugo Franca tree sculptures and benches are installed at a variety of places such as the Smoke Bluffs Park and the Sea to Sky Gondola.
The work of artist Kristin McIver, This Beautiful Day is an important acknowledgment expressed at the beginning of the Squamish First Nations public gatherings. According to Vancouver Biennale, McIver explored the multiculturalism and history of the region through this installation.
Inspired by the Squamish Nation oral traditions and nature’s bountifulness, McIver strived to create an art that bridges divides amongst languages, cultures, and physical landscapes.
“The research for the project involved much time spent with members of the Squamish Nation, including taking part in traditional canoe pulls, barbecues, and other cultural events. During this time, McIver was warmly welcomed by the community and was touched by the First Nations’ acknowledgement of, and respect for, the natural landscape and one other,” according to Vancouver Biennale.
