Habitat

Details

Year	2022
Artist(s)	Kyle Thornley
Type	Sculptural Seating
Medium	Powder Coated Steel
Site Location	G.H Dawe Community Centre

Description

Water lilies are considered by many to be the jewels of the wetlands, not only contributing beauty but serving many functions that enhance the overall ecosystem. They capture sunlight to provide photosynthesis for the submerged parts of the plant, they block light which inhibits algae growth and preserves the oxygen content of the water, they are a vital habitat for many animals and insects providing safety on their surface from underwater predators, and in high heat they provide shade and cooler temperatures for underwater species. Along with their graceful compositional form, these valued functions are wonderful symbols of ‘community’.

Wetlands as a habitat for wellness is a clear metaphor for the G.H. Dawe Community Centre as a place for wellness. The design rationale continues with the choice of water lilies as strong symbols of interdependence, cycles of life, and our stewardship or exploitation of lands reflected by their status and health.