Small models behind large sculptures

By VALENTINA BARRERA

Sculptor Marie Khouri is pulling back the curtain on her public art, inviting visitors to not only see the finished product, but where it begins.

Her new exhibition, From Maquette to Territory, at Alliance Française Vancouver, marks her first show in 12 years, tracing how small and hand-made models evolve into large public artworks shaped by her personal history.

“It’s very physical,” she said. “From the moment of your concept that you start to the moment of the actual installation, especially in public art where scales are sometimes 27, 30 feet high.”

The inspiration

Born in Egypt and raised in Lebanon, Khouri settled in Canada after working as an interpreter and began sculpting at 34.

Louise Mabille, cultural assistant and rental coordinator at Alliance Française Vancouver, said the exhibition highlights a part of the process audiences rarely see.

“We honestly like the result … but we don’t necessarily think about what’s behind, what’s the process before it’s arrived here,” said Mabille.

The exhibition reflects how Khouri designs pieces for specific locations. One of her sculptures, Look at the Clouds in North Vancouver, reflects the rainy weather using large, red, scribble-like forms inspired by the way a child might draw a cloud. They are shaped by hand in durable materials so they can exist outdoors at a monumental scale.

Another piece, Eyes on the Street, is inspired by urban thinker Jane Jacobs and her idea that communities stay safer when people are present and watching. The piece, located near Science World, uses two large eye-like forms to overlook the space, turning that concept into something visual and immediate for the public.

Art and connection

Ashley Gesner, a designer and artist who attended the exhibition, said that the link between the art and the space is essential.

“The relationship between artwork and the space it inhabits is such a critical aspect for any designer or artist to consider, the context of their work and the dialogue it has with the surrounding landscape and infrastructure. One desires to create a positive everlasting impact for the viewer,” she said.

“As you can see, the gallery is pretty untraditional,” said Mabille, noting the open space and natural light allow sculptures to be seen from inside and outside the building.

Hannah Steed, a first-year student in the design formation program at Langara College, said starting with small models is key to the design process.

“I think that’s really smart because that way you can establish the flow [and] program the space before actually having it,” she said.

Tania Sotres, gallery manager at Lattimer Gallery in Vancouver who’s also familiar with Khouri’s work, says the role of public art extends beyond design.

“Art in public spaces has the power to create shared experiences and allows people to connect in ways they maybe wouldn’t have been able to otherwise. It inspires conversation which leads to a better understanding of each other.”

The exhibition runs until March 23 at Alliance Française Vancouver at 6161 Cambie St.