Celebrity Jane Seymour brings Open Hearts to Calgary

By NextHome Staff
October 26, 2016

Residents of Calgary’s Community of the Year, Legacy, are now living steps away from one of Calgary’s largest-scale works of public art in a suburban setting. The Open Hearts Icon sculpture, an original design created by well-known actress, activist and artist Jane Seymour, was recently unveiled to the public and now stands as testament to the community’s openhearted and welcoming atmosphere.

The Open Hearts Icon was gifted to Legacy by the community’s master planner, WestCreek Developments in an effort to promote public art in suburban settings and to enrich the community environment. The Open Hearts concept, which inspired the art instalment, reflects a vision for Calgarians to live with open hearts and grow closer to one another through acts of togetherness and community. The sculpture’s placement in a suburban community reflects WestCreek’s vision for its residents to be able to enjoy Calgary’s growing cultural landscape from the comfort of their own homes.

“The Open Hearts symbol was inspired by my original artwork, and I am so pleased to have had the opportunity to transform that inspiration into this meaningful community icon,” Seymour says. “It is my personal belief that love should have no boundaries, flowing unconditionally and inviting others to give and receive love as well. The Open Hearts Icon sculpture is intended to bring the people of Legacy together in this way and I am proud to be a part of this community’s journey to openness and togetherness.”

Left to right, Bravin Goldade, WestCreek Developments; Jane Seymour, Open Hearts Icon artist; Mayor Naheed Nenshi; Councillor Peter Demong

The addition of the sculpture to Legacy brings an added element of urban culture to suburban living at a time when, more than ever before, Calgarians are seeking to experience cultural highlights, such as the arts, in all corners of the city. The unveiling of the sculpture also headlined a public event celebrating the importance of community living, inviting Calgarians to enjoy family-friendly activities while exploring all that Legacy has to offer.

“Community is built when people get out of their houses and make the community their home,” says Bravin Goldade, president and CEO, WestCreek Developments. “Legacy is a place where people from all walks of life can come together and truly feel at home amongst their neighbours. It is our hope that the Open Hearts Icon Sculpture is successful in bringing people together as they make Legacy their home.”

Photos: Allison Seto

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