Making of the Memorial Sculpture: Part 1

Work is well underway on the much-anticipated memorial sculpture. We want to take you along. Let’s start from the beginning. Please enjoy a little Q & A with Craig Murdick of Craig W. Murdick, Architect Ltd. Craig is the visionary behind the memorial sculpture and is diligently working to bring it to life.

Why a memorial sculpture? When the developers pitched the idea of a memorial garden a few years ago we began to discuss an equestrian themed sculpture. The initial idea was a sculptural horse or multiple horses standing in the landscape. But, I felt there should be more to this sculpture. I felt there was an opportunity for something unique and exciting. Something that captures the essence of Beulah Park in its prime.

At a horse race there are many exciting moments for the spectators. At the finish line people are on the edge of their seats as the horses approach neck and neck. Before that is the excitement of the horses speeding around the track with the suspense building moment by moment. But, sometimes overlooked is the start of the race; I think THAT is an exciting moment!

Leading up to the start, the anticipation builds as the horses are guided to the gate by the handlers. Seconds pass as the last horse is lead into the gate.  The fans sit and wait as the moment is about to arrive. Then the announcer calls out “And they’re off!” as the gates slam open and the horses burst forward to begin the race!  It is startling and it takes our breath away!

To accomplish this, I want it to change with the daylight. And I want it to change through the evening. I want the shadows to change into and through the night highlighting different areas at different times. I have made it somewhat abstract to help express the energy and drama of the moment.

What are the next steps to bring this to life? I am currently working to finalize the patterns for the metal cutting. It is a very intricate and complicated assortment of pieces. Each piece will be cut on a computer controlled laser cutting machine so there is no room for error. Once that is complete it will go to welding followed by assembly on the site.

Tell us more about the lighting. The aspect of lighting the sculpture has been a challenge from the beginning. It occurred to me early in the design that creative use of lighting could add a whole extra level of variability and interest. The play of light and shadow on the sculpture throughout the day and into the night will make it come alive. It will continue to change with the time of day and day of the year.