Kelowna’s Artist In Residence art installation to be on display in parks

A new art installation will be coming to Kelowna parks.

The city’s Artist in Residence, Lucas Glenn, is creating a new mobile, interactive art installation. The piece, entitled M.A.S.S.I.V.E., was created with the hope of inspiring residents to think creatively and critically about climate change, and the relationship between people with nature and each other.

The art installation will allow residents and visitors to share music, language and water with plants by interacting with the installation components.

“With salvaged tech connected to solar and power tool batteries, I hope this DIY installation creates small opportunities for intentional ecological exchange,” Glenn said.

“I invite visitors to share water with Ponderosas. Or to DJ for a bush of Oregon grape plants. Rather than focusing on grand climate solutions, this project uses small, creative, and even anti-climactic gestures for living alongside plants.”

The piece will first be installed at Knowles Heritage Park Saturday, Sept. 14.

It will then be at Ben Lee Park on Sept. 21; at Knox Mountain Park first lookout on Sept. 28; and then at Roatary Marsh Park on Oct. 5.

It will be set up and able to be interacted with from 1 to 4 p.m. on each of those days.

“We are thrilled with Lucas’ project and can’t wait for residents to experience it for themselves,” Christine McWillis, Kelowna’s Cultural Services Manager, said.

“This year’s theme of climate change is fitting as our community and we, as individuals, grapple with the realities of a changing climate. Whether you stumble on Lucas’ project or seek it out, we hope the art helps you reflect on the role we each have in causing and reversing the signs of climate change.”