Human Structures, a sculpture by Jonathan Borofsky, is depicted here in False Creek’s Hinge Park facing Habitat Island, an urban sanctuary for local flora and fauna. B.C. Place is in the background lit with the colours of the French flag. The sculpture is both physical and metaphysical. Physically, it’s composed of 64 painted and moulded galvanized steel figures. It’s is seven metres tall and weighs 2,560 kilograms. All the figures are connected with bolts and plates and form a multi-coloured human pyramid.
Mathematically precise, the sculpture was digitally created to be equally enjoyed from every view, including from above. The shape of the figures was designed to allude to pixels, the pixel being the basic element of computer imagery connecting us universally through images. The multi-coloured figures are human scale, all interconnected physically, and by implication through their uniformity but different colours speak to our common humanity, despite differences of race, beliefs and gender.
Borofsky’s art strives to empahasize the positive and buoyant aspect of human nature especially in today’s world filled with adverse events. We have only to look at B.C. Place in the background lit up with the colours of France to stand in solidarity in the face of the recent massacre in Paris. This makes Borofsky’s work all the more poignant. It’s about diversity and inclusiveness – what we need to hold dear, enrich and celebrate if this world is ever to change for the better.
Borosky’s sculpture is part of the Vancouver Biennale (2014–2016). Its theme is “Open Borders/Crossroads Vancouver.” How perfectly the message of his sculpture fits in with theme and location. It’s in a beautiful open setting on False Creek next to Olympic Village, the former residence of Olympic Athletes from all over the world who competed together peacefully.
Borofsky is a US-based, internationally acclaimed artist. He has versions of Human Structures in San Francisco and Beijing. For a more comprehensive look at his amazing work go to: www.borofsky.com
