The installation was a part of the Nuit Blanche exhibit 2019, an all-night celebration of contemporary art that transforming Toronto’s public spaces into unexpected landscapes and animates cultural sites throughout the city.
Voluntary fund raising participation with this installation displays a Carrara Marble origami bear standing in a pool of oil in front of video footage of calving glaciers, evidence of the impact of the melting polar ice cap. The evocative space of the compressor room reflecting on the oil pool creates a dramatic aspect to the installation. The polar bear, the pool of oil, and the ice wall are all elements belonging to and representative of Canada. The sculpture of the bear was auctioned off during the event and the money was donated to the Indigenous Innovation Incubator Project.
WE ARE THE BEAR, because as we come to understand the impact we have had on our world, we must have the courage to stop the disrespect of our land and balance the cycle.
WE ARE THE BEAR references some of Canada’s most powerful and symbolic elements to cast light on climate change and its impact on the Arctic, an essential part of our national identity.
WE ARE THE BEAR because we are both part of a continuous natural cycle in which all living things are intertwined. In many Aboriginal cultures, the bear is a sacred animal honoring the virtue of courage.
WE ARE THE BEAR as we come to understand the cost of climate change. Disruption of natural cycles may force a global migration. Humans moving to new territories, travelling in unbearable conditions to survive.
WE ARE THE BEAR, because as we come to understand the impact we have had on our world, we must have the courage to stop the disrespect of our land and balance the cycle.
WE ARE THE BEAR is a call to change. An acknowledgement of those who paid a price for the greatness of this country.
