Seeing Nature

This artwork explores the dynamic between nature and urban existence. 

Exterior of a modern community building with concrete walls and wooden overhangs, showing labeled entrances..

Artist: Brandon Vickerd
Location: Bear Creek Stadium
Category: Civic collection
Year Installed: 2024

About Seeing Nature

Brandon Vickerd's Seeing Nature, installed at Bear Creek Stadium, explores the dynamic between nature and urban existence.  The multi-part artwork features bronze sculptures of animals native to BC; otters, foxes, bears, and rabbits. These figures are positioned to appear as if they are defying gravity, gazing down at visitors as they pass by.  The artwork offers a challenging perspective to the visitors and shifts their pre-conceived notions about familiar animals and humanity’s relationship to the natural world. The work will initially read as a humorous visual trick but is intended to foster an in-depth reflection on the relationship between humans and animals.

The installation spans multiple locations on the stadium’s facade, creating an immersive experience of the site.  Vickerd’s project does not seek to celebrate an ideal state of nature.  Rather, it hopes to create a moment of pause where people can reflect on humanity’s relationship to the natural world and to remind us that even our urban spaces are shared with nature.

About the Artist

Brandon Vickerd is a Hamilton-based artist and Professor at York University, where he chairs the Department of Visual Arts and Art History. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design and a Master of Fine Arts Degree from the University of Victoria. His art aims to challenge the dominant myths of progress and modernity. His work often delves into history and community, exploring the interplay between human constructs and social realities. He has been recognized with numerous awards and grants from prestigious institutions, including the Social Science and Humanities Research Council, the Canada Council for the Arts, the Toronto Arts Council, and the Ontario Arts Council. Vickerd’s diverse practice encourages viewers to think about how we interact with our surroundings and the stories our society tells.