“We are all animals.” The words are etched into a bronze touchstone. It stands near the We are All Animals Sculpture. This public art installation in Toronto invites contemplation.
The We are All Animals Sculpture was commissioned by Daniels Corporation in September 2015. It is a three-piece permanent installation. Public Studio created it. Lili Huston-Herterich was also involved. Josh Schonblum designed the program.
Located near High Park, one of Toronto’s largest urban parks, We are All Animals addresses the co-existence of ecology, environmentalism, and technology. The sculpture faces both the street and the park. A large LED screen functions as a landscape tableau.
The digital environment is randomly generated. It uses digital gaming software. The landscape evolves over days, months, and years. Digital 3D modeled forms use polygons. This design is mirrored in the two limestone coyotes. They sit expectantly at the courtyard’s edge.
The We are All Animals Sculpture reminds us of our connection to nature. We are part of it. We are all animals. The installation encourages reflection on our place in the environment. It highlights our relationship with technology.
Many Torontonians may not realize that Toronto has over 300 free-standing sculptures in public places. These sculptures often explore contemporary topics. Some reflect historical episodes.
Sculptures have a long history. The earliest examples date back 33,000 years. These were often animal carvings from animal bones.
The Greeks introduced mathematical proportions to sculpture. Michelangelo’s David is a famous example from the 16th century. Auguste Rodin is considered the father of modern sculpture. Pop art and minimalist sculptures emerged in the 20th century. Sculptures can be molded, cast, carved, or assembled.
Other notable Toronto sculptures include The Audience by Michael Snow. It captures sports culture. The Monument to Multiculturalism represents the city’s diversity. Sun Life by Sorel Etrog explores new artistic methods. Immigrant Family by Tom Otterness honors newcomers. Dreaming by Jaume Plensa reflects human dreams.
Like these other works, We are All Animals adds to Toronto’s rich artistic landscape. Its message is simple yet profound. We must remember our connection to the natural world. This art installation stands as a reminder. We are all animals sharing this planet.