The Monument
The central figure of the monument is a tall, graceful woman cast in bronze - the spirit of the tribute. The figure is set high on one side of the central arch, which is split and uneven, as in an expression of hope marred by the unharmonious image of war. The woman holds the ancient symbols of peace in her hands, an ascending dove and an olive branch. The branch is entwined with the Maple Leaf. Two walls, representing separation and conflict, divide the site but break down towards the centre where the symbolic tribute is offered to peace. On blocks of granite broken from the walls stand four realistic bronze figures representing the soldiers, sailors and airmen who have served in Canada's peacekeeping forces since 1948.
The Setting
The commemoration, set on an island in traffic, conveys an image of stillness at the heart of the storm. The emphasis is on movement from meaninglessness and chaos, inwards towards order, harmony and meaning. There is a sense both of refuge and discovery for people as they move closer to the arch and penetrate into the two opposing spaces around it - the garden, which offers refuge, and the gathering space, which invites collective response. In the foreground of the central arch, a reflecting pool helps to create a sense of a garden. When it is cold, a mist rises from the surface of the heated pool to create a sense of mystery and magic around the monument.
(From official publication)
2 scanned / 2 viewable
- Photograph of Model
- Photograph of Model
