As an obelisk at the centre of a small square, the light structure stands among the high rises with at the top, a brown bear sculpture. At night the blue light creates a mystical scenery, where the bear representing the resurgence of nature among humans, stands as a symbol for freedom and power.
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Stardust and Time
John McEwen
b.1945
- Steel, resin and LED
- 2009
- 0.5 m x 0.5 m x 3.2 m
- 25 Capreol Court, Toronto
About the artwork
About the artist
John McEwen, is one of Canada’s foremost sculptors, to identify what, in his view, makes good public art. Being best known for his use of stars as sculptural elements as well as naturalistic images, McEwen, is strongly inspired by animals that can reveal the close inter-connection between nature and culture. Currently living and working in Hillsdale, Ontario, he is the co-founder and former director of A Space. John McEwen was honoured in 2007 with a Doctorate of Fines Arts from The University of Lethbridge, and continues to share the poetic meaning and art historical sources contributing to the rich history of the Canadian landscape.
Fun facts
- Similar to constellations, McEwen sees stars as the perfect light vehicle to represent shapes and images. The magical installations of McEwen contrast with the heavy materials used to embody his ideas transgressing the boundaries of the real and unreal.
Engagement questions
- What do you think the artist wanted to communicate? What do you see in the artwork that makes you say that?
- What do you think the artist's intentions are?
