Turkey Head could mark the cornerstone of a series of arts spaces connected throughout the community.
Now in her third year, Arts Laureate Barbara Adams’ vision grew exponentially each summer, starting in 2014 with six art installations – three sculptures on loan and three painted pianos.
Last summer, sculptures spread through the community and four painted pianos dotted the landscape; 2015 finished with the purchase of Oak Bay’s first piece of fine art – the Salish Sea sculpture.
Oak Bay Marine Group donated the $10,000 required to develop the Turkey Head space surrounding the Salish Sea sculpture.
“The arts have long been a part of the culture of our company,” said Brook Castelsky, chief operating officer.
For example, Bob Wright, the founder of Oak Bay Marine Group who died in 2013, created their renowned Painter’s at Painters Lodge arts event in Campbell River.
“We’re happy to continue to build on the work done by Arts Laureate Barbara Adams,” Castelsky said. “The work she’s done has added significantly to the community.”
That performance space provides a foundation for Adams’ vision of community art spaces, an area open for performing or visual arts and demonstrations, throughout the community, perhaps connected by a series of permanent art installations.
“It basically brings the (Salish Sea) project to completion,” said Susan Barcham, director of corporate affairs and communications for Oak Bay Marine Group.
A gathering space would harken back to the history of the Oak Bay Boathouse, Barcham said, recalling Wright sharing stories of the old boathouse where people would come and pay a quarter for coffee and sit around telling tales or catching up with neighbours. They’d like to strengthen those roots.
“We want Oak Bay Marina to be a gathering place,” Barcham said. “This only continues to to move into that direction of a gathering place or community-minded marina.”
Turkey Head already has a significant draw of walkers, joggers and those who sit and enjoy the view on the many memorial benches, Castelsky said.
“To be able to finish this performance and seating area will add a new element to Turkey Head.”