Whether a number of world-class sculptures will be allowed to remain in city parks beyond their current shelf life is being examined next week by Vancouver’s parks board.
The 2005-2007 Vancouver Sculpture Biennale saw the city’s oceanfront transformed with 24 sculptures including an upside down church in Coal Harbour and a pair of engagement rings overlooking English Bay.
In March, the biennale foundation requested that a number of its sculptures, acquired during the 2005-2007 biennale, be allowed to remain on parkland beyond the 18 months currently agreed upon.
Commissioner Spencer Herbert said next week’s public consultation will ask people whether it is OK to extend the temporary exhibition period for some pieces.
“A lot of residents have said to me, ‘Why did this piece come down?’ or ‘I miss that piece, isn’t it possible for it to stay around a little longer?’” Herbert said.
“I think we want to see if we can have that flexibility.”
Biennale chair Michella Frosch said she hopes there is public support for extending the sculptures exhibition beyond 18 months.
“It’s extremely important for our public art program and the City of Vancouver and cultural tourism.”
