Sentinel

The Work

This work is inspired by totemic female figures known as caryatids, invoked for their wisdom and protection. Intricately woven, the piece was first created in local willow branches that had been soaked in water to create flexibility. The 3.6m long willow sections were then entwined with cuttings from apple, cherry, plum and grapevines to create a form that suggests a gentle female presence, a theme which frequently appears in MacNutt's work.

The shaped piece was then encased and fired in layers of ceramic. During this process the natural materials burn away. It is a lost piece, MacNutt explains, because the original is destroyed to create the final work.

Molten bronze was poured into the hollowed shape left behind by the burned wood, and the ceramic shell broken away to reveal the bronze piece beneath. Since this process is only possible with small pieces, the willow had to be cut apart, recreated in bronze and welded together to form the final piece.

The Project

The work was created during the Okanagan Thompson International Sculpture Symposium, The Symposium, from May to September of 2002, was hosted by 8 communities in south central B.C., from Osoyoos to Kamloops. A juried competition in October 2001 led to commissions for 20 sculptors from across Canada and around the world to work in this region-wide “open air” gallery. Residents and visitors had the opportunity to see dramatic works of art fashioned from raw materials while discussing passions and inspirations with the artists. Each of the participating communities benefits from the legacy of the permanent works of art and the opportunity to observe and interact with the artists at work over an extended period of time.

This work was originally installed at the south end of the Art Walk between the Rotary Centre for the Arts and the Library Parkade, but was relocated to City Hall in summer 2008.

The Artist

Dawn MacNutt holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Mount Allison University, a Master of Social Work degree from Dalhousie University and an honorary Doctorate from Mt. St. Vincent University in Halifax. She also received the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002. An experienced art juror, instructor and speaker, MacNutt served as a national director on the Canadian Craft Council from 1983-7.

MacNutt's creations are held in prestigious private and public collections worldwide, including the collections of the Governor General of Canada and the National Museum of Civilization.