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Heron lands in Nelson

Controversial sculpture Heron's Landing has finally landed in Nelson.
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Heron's Landing lands in Nelson.

It has been over a year since Nelson city council put their name in the running for a new piece of public art, and now Heron's Landing is installed at Lakeside Park.

Heron's Landing, which is a 25 foot bronze sculpture by Okanagan artist Jock Hildebrand, is now perched at Heritage Inn Point.

“I think it looks fabulous,” said cultural development officer Joy Barrett. “It's really amazing. It is really well suited to the location and it is pretty spectacular. It's another great feature on our waterfront and a great addition to the city's growing collection of public art.”

The sculpture was originally commissioned by Kelowna condominium complex, but plans fell through and Hildebrand began offering the sculpture to several municipalities.

Nelson city council approved the accquisition of Heron's Landing, but the decision was met by controversy and disapproval from the public.

There was concern around the decision to install pieces by artists from outside the region.

“Had it been known a major piece of public art was on the City’s shopping list the local arts community would be abuzz with creative energy ¡ª energy inspired by Nelson’s surrounding landscape, history, etc.,” said Cam Douglas, a local sculptor, in a letter to the Star last year.

Councillor Donna Macdonald doubted Nelson would ever have the funds to commission a $200,000 piece of art, which is what the city is getting.

The location for Heron's Landing was left up to a public vote after a committee.

“I know a couple people who have gone down to see the sculpture because they knew it was being installed and they loved it,” said Barrett. “I haven't heard from the general public yet.”

There will be a formal unveiling of the sculpture in October and Barrett said Hildebrand is planning to attend.