Chinook Arc is an interactive, illuminated sculpture that reflects our impressions of the Beltline neighborhood as a well defined, confident and vibrant community. The form draws inspiration from the historic Beltline Streetcar loop that once encircled the neighborhood, as well as the Chinook arch weather phenomenon that periodically blankets the Alberta sky. These two identifying boundaries inspired the crisp edges and rounded curves seen in the work. The enclosed space within the sculpture frames the sky and becomes an immersive color environment in the evening.

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The monumental sculpture has become a landmark in the community, operating as an energetic focal point where people congregate for events, stop on their evening walks, pose for photos or duck under to escape the noise of the surrounding city. Visitors to Chinook Arc have complete control over the lighting through an optical sensor that projects the movements and colors it sees onto the sculpture. Visitors can wave their hands, move colored objects or play a movie on any smart device in order to create their own unique light sequences.

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Date:

2013

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Location:

Barb Scott Park, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

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Dimensions:

28' x 15' 

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Media:

steel, acrylic, LED lighting, electronics, touch sensors

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Commissioning Agency: 

City of Calgary

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Artist:

Joe O'Connell

Blessing Hancock