Dec
1
I'm responding to Dr. Jack Krayenhoff's article in the November edition of the James Bay Beacon "Day is for Sleeping, etc". Just because someone has TOLD us that this is art are we supposed to believe it? I always think of the fairy tale of The Emperor's New Clothes when I see the piece referred to.
However much it raises my hackles, the creator of this "public health
hazard"' must have laughed all the way to the bank at our gullibility.
Another thought: This piece seems to represent the seamy underside of Victoria rather than beautifying it. After all, many boulevards in our city have sprouted mattresses on them these last few years, usually with a "FREE" sign attached. What must our visitors think when they see this real blight on the landscape, at the hotel where the pieces in question are displayed? I'm not enthusiastic over the art in front of the Arena, or that aluminum-looking tree at the corner of Fort and Foul Bay either.
The very same week that your article appeared in the JBB, Page 6 of the October 28/11 edition of the Victoria News carried a story "City declines statue of Queen." I was appalled that such a gift could be turned down, by what committee? political? community? To my eye, the sculptor, Armando Barbon, does such beautiful work that we should be thrilled and honoured at such an offer.
This morning, I made a special trip to see the bronze statue of Dr.
Helmcken in front of Helmcken House in the Royal BC Museum precinct, the creation of Armando Barbon. So little news has been forthcoming about this lovely piece of art, I was surprised to see it in the first place. Dr. Helmcken was one of the most revered of Victoria's pioneers. His quiet demeanour and beatific and kindly face has been perfectly executed by sculptor Barbon. It would be wonderful if that ugly mattress could be replaced by a lovely sculpture of the queen. Actually, a statue of the queen would deserve a more prominent location than adjoining a hotel.
Thank you for reading this rant. I so enjoy Jack Krayenhoff's
writing in the James Bay Beacon.
Margaret Spark
James Bay resident for 22 years.