Photo by Denis Bouvier
The 217.5 Arc x 13’ sculpture was created by influential French artist Bernar Venet, one of the world’s most cele- brated conceptual artists. This work is part of the Vancouver Biennial, a public art exhibition featuring sculptures, new media and performance works by both recognized and emerging international artists. The venues are public parks, beaches and plazas, transforming these spaces into free open- air exhibitions.
The arc’s mass is substantial (5,500 kg), yet its perfect bal- ance evokes an impressive grace. It retains the rust-like colour of Corten steel blending beautifully in the natural setting of Sunset Beach. The arc has 13 curves which dramatically frame the beauty of English Bay. Venet perhaps did not intend his art to have such a utilitarian purpose, but this picture captures someone who sees an obvious use that may have escaped most of us. Such is summer in Vancouver.
