The City of Pickering is pleased to announce that Canadian artist, Patrick Bermingham, has been commissioned to create a public artwork, titled, One Horse Power for a new Fire Station, currently being built in Pickering’s Seaton neighbourhood. The artwork will be located at the front entrance of the new facility, which is currently under construction at the corner of Zents Drive and Brock Road, and expected to open in 2023. This location will be highly visible to pedestrians and motorists and will act as a gateway to the Seaton community, which is expected to accommodate 70,000 new residents and 35,000 new jobs upon full build out.

In April, the City of Pickering released a Call to Artists asking creatives to consider local nature, wildlife, and the growing community of Seaton. Forty-six artists from across Canada and the USA submitted expressions of interest. The Jury – comprised of city staff, residents,  professional artists, the Cultural Advisory Committee, and the Public Art Sub Committee shortlisted the top three submissions, and artist Patrick Bermingham, of Bermingham Studio Inc., was awarded the commission.

Bermingham created his piece to pay tribute to the work horse — the original unit of power. “With a single horsepower, so much was accomplished in a short space of time,” said Bermingham, highlighting that the work horse represents a time when human and horse worked together in synergy.

The style of the proposed sculpture is to be highly dynamic, not high realism. The artist intends for passers-by to feel the determination of the horse, conveying strength and beauty through perseverance. As Pickering continues to grow, this steel guardian will remind visitors and residents of the power required to get the job done, in the past, and today.

“Pickering has a dynamic and energized arts community and the City is committed to supporting cultural opportunities through programs like this,” says Laura Gibbs, Manager, Cultural Services. “The City’s Cultural Strategic Plan sets a vision for the place of arts, culture and heritage in the City and identifies strategic directions for policy, investment, partnerships and programs. We’re very excited to welcome this new partnership which will add richness to this urban space.”

For more information on the City of Pickering’s public art program, click here.   

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Bryen writes about local Durham community news, including regional events, municipality updates, entertainment, lifestyle, and the great outdoors. Email him directly if you want your business profiled or know a community member that deserves recognition - bryen@thelocalbizmagazine.com