The fate of the iconic orca mural on the Yates Block building in downtown Victoria is uncertain as plans for the redevelopment of the structure move forward, according to the owner.
Robert Fung, president of the Vancouver-based Salient Group, is a devoted fan of renowned artist Wyland, who created the three-story mural depicting the A5 orca pod. The mural has adorned the northern facade of the building for almost forty years.
While Wyland has suggested restoring the mural on social media, a final decision has not been made. Fung has confirmed ongoing discussions with the artist for the past two years, but any restoration efforts will need to comply with the city’s heritage alteration plan.
Over time, the mural has faded, causing concerns about its long-term preservation. Local residents have voiced their opinions on the matter. Victor Stepanov, a native of Victoria, supports restoration and appreciates the calming depiction of the orcas’ eyes in the artwork. Calvin Tripp, a passing cyclist, believes the mural could benefit from a touch-up but doesn’t have a strong opinion on restoration.
Wyland, known for his marine life murals around the world, is committed to restoring older artworks that have been affected by time.
A heritage conservation plan submitted to the city last November highlighted the potential damage to the building’s bricks if the mural were to be removed, as the paint was directly applied to them. The proposed redevelopment by the Salient Group aims to preserve the existing five-story heritage building and add two additional floors for mixed residential and hotel units. The ground floor will retain commercial spaces suitable for restaurants or food establishments.
The Yates Block, originally constructed in 1882 and designed by John Teague, has undergone various transformations over the years, serving as a store, ship chandler, and restaurant.
As the community awaits a decision on the fate of the orca mural and the progress of the building’s redevelopment plans, the preservation of this celebrated artwork remains a focal point for both locals and admirers of Wyland’s art.
FAQ:
1. What is the iconic mural on the Yates Block building in downtown Victoria?
– The iconic mural is a three-story artwork created by renowned artist Wyland, depicting the A5 orca pod.
2. Will the mural be restored during the planned redevelopment of the building?
– A final decision has not been made. Restoration has been suggested by Wyland, but it will depend on the city’s heritage alteration plan.
3. Has the mural faded over time?
– Yes, the mural has gradually faded, raising concerns about its long-term preservation.
4. What do local residents think about restoring the mural?
– Victor Stepanov, a Victoria native, supports restoration and appreciates the calming depiction of the orcas’ eyes. Calvin Tripp, a passing cyclist, believes a touch-up would benefit the mural but doesn’t have a strong opinion on restoration.
5. Who is Wyland?
– Wyland is a renowned artist known for his marine life murals worldwide. He is committed to restoring older artworks affected by time.
6. What is the proposed redevelopment plan for the Yates Block building?
– The plan includes preserving the existing five-story heritage building and adding two additional floors for mixed residential and hotel units. The ground floor will feature commercial spaces suitable for restaurants or food establishments.
Key Terms:
– Orca pod: A group of orcas or killer whales.
– Heritage alteration plan: A plan regulating the preservation and alteration of heritage buildings and structures.
– Redevelopment: Making changes or improvements to an existing building or area.
Suggested Related Links:
– salientgroup.com (Official website of the Salient Group)
– wyland.com (Official website of Wyland)
The source of the article is from the blog elblog.pl