The Monument
Four finely detailed, bronze figures stand on a granite island in a pool that represents the world. Fifty granite blocks, roughly shaped like human beings, lie in the pool, representing swimmers who seek refuge on the island sanctuary. One of the bronze figures shows a soldier holding the United Nations banner and sheltering a refugee; another shows a military policewoman calling for help on her radio; a helicopter crewman extends a hand towards a swimmer; a sailor has thrown a line to a distant swimmer. Two granite-faced walls, one slightly lower than the other, define the southeast edge of the pool and offer a surface for commemorative plaques and dedications. Here, sheltered from the sun, wind, and noise of traffic, people may sit in contemplative repose. A large open area to the northwest offers a ceremonial gathering place for public occasions. Low radial walls point from flag poles on the far side of this space towards the monument itself.
The Setting
The monument is oriented to the northwest, so that people travelling southward by car, or walking in Major's Hill Park or in front of the National Gallery of Canada, will have a wide-open view of the monument. However, good views can be had from all sides of the monument, including a dramatic glimpse from Sussex Drive through a gap in the south-eastern walls.
(From official publication)
2 scanned / 2 viewable
- Photograph of Model
- Photograph of Model
