The Creston Valley Public Art Connection Society (CVPACS) is a not-for-profit society registered under the Society Act of BC. The Society was formed in 2015, in collaboration with Castlegar Sculpture Walk, to promote and display public art from local and regional artists within the community and region. The Society is managed and directed by residents of the Creston Valley, including artists, local and regional government, and members of the public at large.
Over the past few years, CVPAC has hosted a number of interesting public art sculptures in Creston:
Bad Hair Day, a burro, based on an animal seen by the artist during a trip to Greece. Though possibly not the most controversial, it certainly gathers the most attention, as visitors take photos with children aboard, or others put their own spin on the burro, clothing it in flowers, scarves and blankets.
Zodiac Totem, or as I prefer to call it - The Toad-em Pole, takes Chinese and Japanese calendar symbols, and translates them to animals native to the south-western United States ecology.
30 Birds was easily the least understood of the recent sculptures. This piece is best viewed by moving about it and seeing how it changes with your perspective. Unfortunately, while clearly visible to those transiting town, it was located where exploration of the piece was difficult.
The summer of 2017 sees the addition of some new pieces of art to our downtown:
Shima, is a somewhat whimsical hare, which, like Bad Hair Day, generates interaction from the public - carrots often being left at its feet, presumably as a snack!
Lighthouse Fire Ball, sponsored by the Creston Hotel, depicts a coastal scene, with lighthouses, sailing ships, and seagulls. It is lit, to give a representation of a flame in the darkness.
Awakening: Ensconced, Invoked, Enlightened, is another piece that draws attention. The three figures appear to represent different stages of knowledge, or the application of knowledge. Upon seeing the title given the work, one gains a fuller understanding of the artist's goal.
Art is meant to challenge and inspire us; to cause us to pause, think and reflect. Some pieces strike us immediately, others after a time, and some, not at all. An artist who grasps our attention, and causes us to reflect on the piece, or better yet, discuss it with others, has met a considerable achievement. How often do we pass by any of a number of artist's works without pause?
Congratulations and thanks to the Creston Valley Public Art Connection for bringing these to Creston!
More details about Creston Valley Public Art Connection at Kunze Gallery's webpage!