Arts and Culture

You can find culture throughout EG in our:

• Recreational Programs
• Community Events
• Museums
• Community Facilities
• Outdoor Spaces

The hand is a gentle representation of ‘holding’ the stories of the Children of Peace while symbolizing the values of the community; integrity, peace, cooperation, and giving. The dandelion depicts survival, known to thrive in almost any condition, just as the community flourished through hardship. The iconic dandelion, known internationally and as the ‘wish flower,’ brings delightful accessible art to this park allowing every diverse visitor to find some aspect of their own experience reflected back to them. We have all felt the surprise, pleasure and promise connected with a blow and a wish. The lovely imagery expresses David Willson’s founding utopian vision of hope.

The authentic, feathery dynamic of the 150 stainless steel dandelion seeds provides a subtle balance to the sculptural form and adds an elegant, whimsical flair. The gracefully dispersing seeds, blown from the flower head, invite opportunities to reflect on transition and new life possibilities.
Another inspiring life philosophy from the Hope community was how they pulled together, counted on each other, and how interdependence is essential in nature and portrayed through this sculpture. Each element is valuable to the community, and each element's well-being is dependent on the community. Sculpturally, every dandelion and seed (community member) is unique and diverse while contributing to the common good.

As were the Children of Peace. Holding Hope is simple, authentic, and generous in its meaning and connection to all. This installation mirrors the historical times with its materials and link to blacksmithing as an integral part of this community's functioning. The matured steel of the hand and bright stainless of the seeds creates a lively interplay of light and shadow and aspire to add relevant, contextual interest while serving as an attractive beacon and an inclusive, iconic landmark for the Children of Peace Park. A further enhancement for the park is the opportunity for forced perspective photography as visitors blow the seeds and make their wishes.

Holding Hope is offered to encourage feelings of curiosity, gratitude, delight, and well-being as it celebrates and keeps the stories of the past and inspires hope for the future.

Kyle Thornley is an artist blacksmith who, for the last 18 years, has been creating art with metals through commissioned pieces, architectural metalwork, exhibitions, and public art. Kyle is always grateful to create art in the public realm, forging meaning between citizens and their spaces – non-threatening, inviting art that allows every visitor to perhaps find some aspect of their own experience reflected back to them, to provide a fresh perspective, or to act as a catalyst towards critical thought. Kyle is honoured to be a finalist in this meaningful Children of Peace Park public art project. East Gwillimbury is clearly committing to and furthering the belief in art and its power for greater connectivity and for hope.

Are you looking to purchase a unique one-of-a-kind gift? 

EG's Art and Culture Committee will be hosting the Winter Solstice Art Exhibit and Sale. The art exhibit will run from December 11 until March 21st, 2025 at the Town of East Gwillimbury - Civic Centre. 

Purchase your 36" poplar paddle for $30 by contacting ArtsAndCulture@eastgwillimbury.ca.

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