Installed in 2013 Departure stands as a testament to fleeting moments. This sculpture by George Lundeen captures raw human emotion in bronze. It is located in VanDusen Botanical Gardens. Have you noticed how the simple embrace of a couple can tell an entire story?
Let’s delve into the tale of Departure. The artist George Lundeen found inspiration in an unexpected place. It was a sketch he made in 1973 at an Italian train station. That fleeting image of a couple became the basis for this beautiful sculpture. Lundeen used real people as models. He sculpted in clay first then cast the sculpture in bronze.
Departure depicts a man and woman sitting on a bench. The sculpture freezes a moment of connection. Is it a farewell or a reunion? The beauty lies in the ambiguity. Everyone can interpret their own story within the sculpture.
Many variations of Departure exist. This version found its home here in 2013. The sculpture adds to the beauty of VanDusen Botanical Gardens.
Interestingly, Departure gained viral fame because of frost. A Redditor named shawneffel captured a photo of the sculpture covered in frost. The frost transformed the shiny bronze into a matte surface. It looked like a drawing come to life. The photo received over 111,000 upvotes.
The frost created a stunning contrast. The warm embrace of the couple was set against the cold frost. Some viewers thought the woman was snuggling closer to the man for warmth.
Departure invites reflection on human relationships. The sculpture evokes feelings of love, longing, and anticipation. It captures the universal experience of saying goodbye or hello. The body language of the figures speaks volumes.
So, next time you are in VanDusen Botanical Gardens stop by Departure. Take a moment to appreciate the artistry. Consider the emotions that this sculpture evokes. It is a reminder that every moment matters. It is a testament to the power of human connection.