PROJECTS IN PROGRESS: WPP Park Space C
Brent Sparrow and Kelly Cannell
The City is expanding Westminster Pier Park (referred to as WPP) to the west, adding approximately 2.0 acres of park space. The new public park areas (referred to as Park Space ‘B’ and Park Space ‘C’), located between 660 Quayside Drive and WPP will be constructed above a three story parkade. Park Space C, the site for this project is the largest park area, located west of WPP will be constructed by the City with a contribution from BOSA who are developing 660 Quayside.
The riverfront is an important site for many Indigenous communities and is an opportunity to share a deeper understanding of these territories and enrich the experience of the park for residents and visitors.
In 2024, the City issued a Call to Artists seeking a Coast Salish artist or artist team from a nation with connections to the New Westminster area. A selection panel shortlisted three artist/teams and invited them to propose artworks for the new park. Ebb and Flow, consisting of two multi-media sculptures representing traditional Musqueam Salish markers by Brent Sparrow and Kelly Cannell was chosen.
Artwork Description:
"The concept, titled EBB AND FLOW, captures the essence of the river while offering an engaging opportunity for the public to learn about the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓-speaking people who stewarded this land for thousands of years. The graceful design reflects the river's movement and highlights the significance of sockeye salmon and sturgeon in our culture and ecosystem.
The sculptures will be carved from old-growth red cedar, measuring approximately 10 feet tall, 3 feet wide, and 14 inches deep. Each cedar piece will be sheathed in a custom aluminum partial cover, serving as a design element and added weather protection."
The artists have been working with the design team to integrate the artworks into the overall park design.
Completion is planned for November 2025.
Image credit: Concept rendering featuring one of two posts.
