Spotty the Dog (2007)

Douglas Taylor

Hamilton Fire Hall, 22451 Westminster Hwy.

Area: Hamilton
Location: At the entrance to the park, next to the fire hall.

Materials: Cast aluminum and stainless steel.

Program: Civic
Ownership: Civic
Sponsored By: City of Richmond

Description of Work

A large wind machine symbolizing one of the most recognized symbols of the fire service, the fire station Dalmation. The artwork includes a large firefighter's helmet which depicts the image of the Maltese Cross that all firefighters wear, a symbol of protection and a badge of honour.

Artist Statement

I feel very privileged to bring forward the cultural spirit of Canadian 18th, 19th and 20th century ‘yard art’. I accomplish this by enlarging the whirligig format into large scale wind powered machines: the running dog Spotty is one of such whirligig. This Dalmatian gallops in slow motion as a mascot for the Hamilton Fire Hall. He is located on a walkway utilized by many children local to the area. In stormy weather this high tech whirligig self governs, slowing down to protect itself.