The Monument
The central image of this monument is a glowing tower of light. Built of glass blocks, the tower is reminiscent of a fortress, and yet it clearly breaks away from military tradition just as peacekeeping soldiers break with the military traditions of the past. The ancient symbol of pure, white light conveys its message of life and hope, as does the image of the lighthouse, the watchtower, and the modern communications tower. Inside the tower are two life-size aluminum figures cast from life. The figures are seen working with telephone and computer to show the importance of modern communications, where Canadians have distinguished themselves. The suggestion is that the soldiers are working not in Cyprus or Africa, but in Ottawa, and that they are broadcasting a message of peace - represented by the tower's beacon of light - to the world. Whereas heroic figures have traditionally been placed at the top of movements, away from ordinary people, these have been placed at ground level, in close relationship to the people who come to watch them at work. The figures are heroic, but not confrontational.
The Setting
The square is defined by lines of light, and the tower stands on grassy, rampart-like earthworks. The pseudo-military context of the site is emphasized also by two wide portals that lead into the ramparts through stone cuts guarded by two sculptured figures - the "Keepers of the Light". Special ground treatment defines the adjacent part of Sussex Drive as belonging to the monumental precinct, while enhanced crosswalk signal the approach to a major ceremonial site. The tower of light is visible, rain or shine, from virtually anywhere in the central Capital, and especially from high buildings or the air.
(From official publication)
2 scanned / 2 viewable
- Photograph of Model
- Photograph of Model
