Honoring the Vision: A Reflection on Creation and Legacy
We must hold onto our visions, however elusive they may seem. They are the bridges between the past, present, and future.
When Disneyland opened its gates for the very first time, a poignant moment unfolded. An interviewer expressed regret to Walt Disney's brother, saying, "I'm really sorry that Walt wasn't here to see this." His brother’s reply was as profound as it was simple: "He did see it; that’s why you’re seeing it today."
This story captures the essence of holding onto a vision—a vision that transcends time and circumstance, even when the originator isn’t physically present. Yet, holding onto such a vision can be one of life’s greatest challenges. Sometimes the idea evolves so far from its original form that we lose sight of what it once was. Other times, we find ourselves trapped in the act of trying too hard, pushing beyond the point of clarity. The most difficult competition is not with others, but with ourselves—with the person we were yesterday, the person we imagined we’d be, or the person we’re striving to become.
In moments of doubt, I remind myself of the deep roots that ground me. I was born on the Canadian Shield, a landscape shaped by glaciers and time. The etched lines of its ancient rock hold stories that have become part of my memory. For most of my life, I didn’t realize the profound influence this rugged terrain had on me. Beneath the dark, rich soil lies a masterpiece of natural sculpture—a testament to the Earth’s resilience and artistry.
This realization has shaped my work. I’ve found solace and purpose in paying homage to the land, in transforming its hardened forms into creations that remind us why life is worth living. Whether through stone, bronze, or other materials, my art seeks to honor the timeless connection between humanity and the Earth. The land’s stories are older than we can comprehend, and its wisdom is something we must carry forward.
As the Indigenous peoples of this land remind us, "Only the rocks stay." This profound truth resonates deeply with me. The rocks, ever-present and enduring, remind us of the permanence of nature amid the impermanence of our lives. Through my work, I hope to capture a fraction of that permanence and share it with others.
We must hold onto our visions, however elusive they may seem. They are the bridges between the past, present, and future. And in the act of creating, we find not only a connection to the world around us but also to the self we were always meant to be.