Penticton has one more ‘Helping Hand’ today with the installation of its newest outdoor sculpture.
Created by David Jacob Harder, the sculpture was entered into a call for artists issued by the City of Penticton in fall 2018. His vision for the 12 feet tall and 10 feet across sculpture was brought to life thanks to sponsorship by the city and Valley First, a division of First West Credit Union.
According to a release from the city, a tree will eventually grow up through the hand, which weighs between 800 and 1,000 lbs, at its new home at 184 Main St. Five words that represent Penticton were selected out of 380 suggestions by residents in the community to be etched onto the sides of the sculpture in 15 different languages - Beauty, Nature, Family, Home and Diverse.
READ MORE: Describe Penticton in one word
“Valley First and the City are very excited to see it installed and for the community to begin to enjoy it,” says director of Recreation and Facilities Bregje Kozak in the release. “The sheer size will make it a pretty impressive addition to Main Street and we hope that the inclusion of residents in the selection of words to feature on the sculpture will make it extra special and meaningful to the community.”
Paulo Araujo, president of Valley First, added, “This project really speaks to the inclusivity of our community. I am really proud of the whole committee, which included two of our staff - Siann Pugh and Cheryl Watts - who were able to contribute to creating something that will live outside our regional office and main branch for years to come as a symbol of community.”
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