Public Art

Guardians and Guides by Jane Bowen

“Guardians and Guides” reflects Brantford’s industrial history.

Building on the foundation of the city’s industrial and architectural heritage, the composition suggests a geometric inspired landscape. The development of this site-specific assemblage installation was inspired by salvaged foundry moulds and related heritage artefacts from Brantford’s historical industries. The pieces provided have been sensitively blended and transformed into design elements, withtheir industrial surfaces integrated, to complement the aesthetic of the site.

“Guardians and Guides” considers chapters/eras of socio-economic shifts in Brantford’s diverse history. Optimism and hope are conveyed and encouraged as a catalyst for continued evolution and progress.

Presenting a vision of pride, resilience and vibrancy, “Guardians and Guides” serves as a visual gateway to growth and expansive perspectives.

– Jane Bowen, September 2021

About the Artist: Jane Bowen

Jane Bowen has exhibited throughout Ontario since her first solo exhibition in Elora, Ontario in 1989. While assemblage has been a consistent area of her focus, her exhibited bodies of work demonstrate her experience in a range of mediums including encaustic, sculpture, and oil and cold wax. Her evolving artwork draws on her surroundings and daily life, evoking thoughtful contemplation.

A special thanks to Rob Adlam for his support of this project as well as the Canadian Industrial Heritage Centre. Funding and support from the City of Brantford and the Samuel W. Stedman Foundation.

The Grand Exhibit

Brantford’s Grand Exhibit is a partnership between the City of Brantford and Glenhyrst Art Gallery. It features twelve to-scale reproductions from Glenhyrst’s permanent collection displayed throughout the City. The Grand Exhibit showcases a small part of over 600 original works of art from Glenhyrst’s permanent collection. The twelve pieces selected for the Grand Exhibit were voted on by members of the community. This project was made possible with the generous support from the Downtown Brantford BIA and Brooks Signs.

To learn more about Brantford’s Grand Exhibit, please contact 519-751-9900 or tourism@brantford.ca.