An orphan sculpture that was going to be displayed in Kelowna will now find a home in Nelson.
The adoption of Heron’s Landing by internationally recognized artist Jock Hildebrand was endorsed by Nelson city council this month.
It was originally commissioned by Kelowna condominium complex, but plans fell through and Hildebrand began offering the sculpture to several municipalities.
Councillor Donna Macdonald said that receiving the donated sculpture complements the efforts of the Cultural Development Commission.
“While our focus is mainly on local and regional artists, the policy also encourages the participation of national and international artists, such as Mr. Hildebrand,” she said.
The sculpture was offered to the City of Kelowna but after council heard the potential $50,000 cost of installing it, they declined.
The report to Nelson council from city staff said the immediate cost of the sculpture would be $7,000.
The sculpture is currently housed in Calgary and the projected cost to have it shipped to Nelson is $1,000. The additional $6,000 is for a base the artist has designed and will have to construct.
The potential installation cost was not mentioned in the report. It stated: “The installation cost would be site specific.”
Council approved the acquisition of the sculpture just after reviewing the new Sustainable Downtown and Waterfront Master Plan, which emphasized the importance of public art in creating a vibrant and creative city.
Councillor Robin Cherbo was opposed to the acquisition because he felt it was more important to showcase local artists.
Heron’s Landing is a 25 foot bronze sculpture.
Hildebrand’s sculptures appear in public places around the world including Vietnam, China, Costa Rica and the Czech Republic.
His studio, gallery and foundry are based in the Okanagan Valley.