Rainbow Trout
The Elbow River is home to several species of fish, one of the most sought after by anglers is the rainbow trout. Fish, geese, ducks, hawks, squirrels, beavers and coyotes are all part of this ecosystem. As the largest private landowner along the Elbow River in the city, the Calgary Stampede takes environmental protection seriously and is the proud custodian of urban spaces and natural areas – including ENMAX Park.
A native Calgarian, internationally acclaimed multimedia artist, Jeff de Boer, takes much of his inspiration from nature. His memories of spending beautiful summer days fly fishing along the Elbow River with his family are heart felt in this colourful piece of public art. Jeff is an Alberta College of Art and Design graduate, and now works in his Ramsay studio, using various mediums to create pieces that surprise, delight and make memories.
This sculpture can be taken as a symbol for and gateway to both the Calgary Stampede and Ramsay community, a form of artistic handshake between the two communities.
Did You Know?
- The six sections of the trout body represent not only a rainbow trout, but also symbolize diversity
- Rainbow Trout is 6.4 metres tall at its highest point
- It took 2,000 mans to complete the piece
- A total of 750 hours was spent grinding and polishing the various pieces
- $3,500 was spent on sand paper and three grinders were burnt out
- 75 kg of welding wire went into the “waves”
- The sculpture incorporates internal LEDs and takes on an entirely different and spectacular look at night
- Up to four more pieces of public art are planned for ENMAX Park
- The de Boer name is not new to the Stampede story. Jeff's father helped build the Union 76 Clock Tower that was once an iconic meeting place for so many Stampede goers. De Boer hopes Rainbow Trout becomes another iconic meeting place to visitors of Enmax Park
Location
Calgary Foundation Crossing in ENMAX Park, Stampede Park, near the MacDonald Bridge
View on Art Walk