A new creation, like the mythological character Galatea, is set to spring to life in West Vancouver’s John Lawson Park, next to the Silk Purse Arts Centre.
The West Vancouver Community Arts Council will unveil its sixth annual Community Art Project, Grassqawtch, a collaborative public art initiative designed by North Shore artist Robert Turriff, during a public event on Aug. 2, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
This captivating sculpture, like the ivory statue brought to life under Venus’ touch, begins as a lifeless form made from steel, shade cloth, and soil pockets created by Turriff. Yet, like Galatea’s transformation, the Grassqawtch will blossom into a living entity through the collective efforts of community members.
Throughout August, North Shore residents are invited to participate in this interactive art experience by planting native grasses, specifically carex pachystachya, a drought-tolerant grass that grows naturally throughout the West Coast, into the sculpture’s soil pockets. The grasses will grow and cover the Grassqawtch and turn it into a giant, green figure.
This artwork aims to celebrate the beauty of native plants and remind people of the significance of environmental stewardship and the impacts of climate change.
Creating something unique and beautiful together as a community mimics the worldwide co-operation necessary to safeguard the planet, according to a description of the project from the arts council.
Turriff, the designer and creator of the Grassqawtch, grew up playing in the forests of North Vancouver, developing an early fascination with plants and forests. He shares a love for gardening with his wife, and together, they have cultivated a remarkable garden.
You are invited to the Ambleside waterfront to give life to the giant grassy Grassqawtch.
Grassqawtch Community Art Project
Unveiling: Friday, August 2, 5:30–7 p.m. Artist Robert Turriff and other art lovers will be in attendance.
Community collaborations: Every Saturday and Sunday in August from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Participate in the creative process by adding more grass to help Grassqawtch come to life.
Fatemeh Falah is an intern reporter with the North Shore News. She can be contacted at [email protected].
