Sculptures in the Gateway
Commotion
Erected in 2010, Commotion dances in place at the intersection of Victoria St. and 20th Avenue, welcoming visitors into the Gateway Business Improvement Area (BIA). The steel sculpture, measuring 4.5 m high x 10 m wide, depicts 25 unique figures tumbling joyously together, hands connected in solidarity. The energy of this piece comes across vividly in the curved forms and varying orientations, sizes and shapes of the figures, representing the diversity, cooperation and interconnectedness that unites BC’s northern capital.
In the true spirit of community, the project was completed from start to finish using local materials and labour. It was designed by Roman Muntener, an artist working with local design studio Concept Design, and fabricated by local blacksmiths. The metal components were cut from mild plate steel, a low-maintenance metal which oxidizes to an earthy copper colour, with some pieces passed through an industrial bending machine before cutting, in order to create the curved shapes that characterize Commotion. The sculpture is set in a concrete foundation and illuminated by several spotlights installed around the perimeter.
Commotion is a tribute to the people of Prince George — their enthusiasm, volunteerism and connection to place and each other, an exuberant celebration of community spirit.
Triumph
Greeting visitors at the Northwest entrance to the Gateway BIA is Commotion’s stalwart counterpart, Triumph. Preserving the theme of “Human Figures” first encountered in Commotion, this sculpture depicts a three dimensional form in which twelve life-sized figures are joined together in a symbol of hope, unity and human triumph over adversity.
Designed by Vince Scott of Concept Design and completed in 2022, the sculpture is an entirely local project that measures 5.5m both tall and wide, displaying a radial symmetry that makes it equally attractive from all perspectives. The interlocking legs of the figures outline a six-pointed star in the vertical plane that is suggestive of a snowflake — a nod to the northern winter — and the two intersecting planes of figures trace a four-pointed star when viewed from above. Angled lines are used to create a sense of movement in the piece.
The human figures were constructed using locally fabricated and cut mild plate steel which, like in Commotion, is easy to maintain and rusts to an earthy copper colour. Although steel is a heavy material, the form appears light through the artful use of negative space, which is enhanced by the perimeter lighting system that illuminates the sculpture.
Portraying people made stronger through connection and cooperation, Triumph is a celebration of the resilience of community.
New for 2024, a flower ring has been designed and installed around the perimeter.
