From Water to Earth 

Public Art 

DuraTherm thermoplastic

490’ft X 13’ft

2021

The Alexandra Greenway, Richmond, BC 

Public artwork commissioned by the City of Richmond

The concept for the Alexandra Greenway project is to celebrate the rich hydrology and landscape of Richmond. The artwork illustrates Richmond's bog and slough natural habitat in a Chinese ornamental-pattern style. The symmetrical emblem com-prises local species such as dragonflies, turtle, labrador tea, and bog laurel that inhabit the remnants of sloughs in this neighbourhood. The wavy outline is an abstract refer-ence to water, the foundation of where Richmond emerged to be. The artwork intends to raise awareness of the significance of Richmond's bog ecosystem and its biodiversity. 

Its design sought inspiration from traditional Chinese ornamental patterns. The artist also took reference from lattice windows in classical Chinese gardens. The repeating emblems are connected by intertwining vines to create a continuous flow that compliments the use of this multipurpose pathway. In Feng Shui, water is the attribute of prosperity, and earth is the attribute of stability and support. Therefore, the artwork carries good wishes of prosperity and stability to the public, facilities, and shops in nearby zones.