One of region’s newest and largest pieces of public art has landed on a structure across the river from Surrey.
Woven into chain-link fence, “Birds on a Branch” is located on the Front Street parkade in New Westminster.
The commissioned work, by artists Jacqueline Metz and Nancy Chew, depicts a flock of songbirds resting on branches.
In a news release, the City of New Westminster calls it a “playful counterpoint to the industrial façade of the Front Street parkade.
“The chain-link fence canvas is approximately 660 feet long (by) 25 feet high, making it one of the largest public art installations in the region.”
The official opening of “Birds on a Branch” will be on July 7 at 5 p.m. at the Front Street Mews, as part of the city’s inaugural Fridays on Front event.
The art project has been in the planning for the past couple of years, according to a report in the New Westminster Record.
“New Westminster has always supported local artists, our creative sectors, and worked to elevate our city’s reputation as a leading arts and cultural destination,” stated Mayor Johnathan X. Coté. “As we look toward fulfilling New Westminster’s Riverfront Vision, which aims to connect people to the riverfront, ‘Birds on a Branch’ serves as a unique and exciting destination which will draw residents and visitors alike.”
Added Mary Trentadue, a city councillor in New West and also a member of the city’s public art advisory committee: “The City of New Westminster has been working towards transformation of our riverfront over the past few years and this art installation is an important part in bringing back a sense of place and creativity to an area of our downtown that has been overlooked for years. I am very proud to see this project realized and look forward to this flock of birds joining the neighbourhood.”