Vancouverism

Living Shangri-La is Vancouver's tallest building. Designed by James KM Cheng Architects Inc. (Photo by Uncle Buddha via Flickr)

I've seen this term being thrown around in various architecture readings, but never really knew what the term encompassed. Here is what I've learned:

"Vancouverism is characterized by tall, but widely separated, slender towers interspersed with low-rise buildings, public spaces, small parks and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes and facades to minimize the impact of a high density population."

Wedged between the sea, mountains and the US border, Vancouverism is truly a product of its environment.

Here is an interesting comparison between New York's modern architecture and Vancouver's neomodern styles and the policies that allow them to exist.

And if you didn't know before, you do now.

PublicART: Eagles in the City

(Photo by LK Cavers)

When visiting Vancouver a few months back, it was hard not to notice the 7½ foot bald eagles taking over public spaces every several intersections (and in places you would least expect).

Modelled after other similar city art projects, 'Eagles In The City' intends:

• To create an event that provides maximum exposure to sponsoring organizations, artists and the recipient charity
• To invite tourists from around the world to visit our province and share in our culture
• To produce an event that encourages the 'Arts', local businesses and individuals to come together in a spirit of community fundraising, benefiting the important work of the BC Lions Society's Easter Seal Services.
• To generate artistic creativity and showcase BC artists
• To celebrate the cultural diversity of our province and promote civic pride
• To capture the imagination of children, adults, and tourists alike
• To raise much needed funds to provide Easter Seal Services to children with disabilities

There seems to be a lot more done about showcasing homegrown artists and their projects in B.C. than there is here in Toronto. Correct me if I'm wrong... Perhaps I should ask the Buttercup girls.

More about this public art project can be found here. For more about Vancouver's Public Art Program proceed this way.