ÉCOBUAGE

Description:

Écobuage is a public art project commissioned by the Winnipeg Arts Council. It is a celebration of the relationship between human and natural systems through the recognition of the importance of the phenomena of fire to the prairie landscape. 

A six-metre tall weathering steel fireplace structure is the central feature of the plaza. Designed to complement the height of the adjacent park pavilion, the sculptural feature is composed of dynamic planes of steel, laser cut to depict a flickering flame, providing a view of the fire and smoke within. Tyndall stone benches, weathered steel planters, wood storage bins and secondary BBQ pits delineate spaces within the plaza for multiple groups to assemble, while creating a visually and physically engaging outdoor space responding to the flow and functions of the newly designed pavilion. [1]

Planting strips are delineated by linear steel boxes cut into a compacted granite area as well as the grass which borders it. The layout of the planting is a reflection of the lighting scheme on the pavilion ceiling, continuing the architectural expression seamlessly into the landscape. Within each linear strip, native prairie grasses are be planted. Three of the six strips also serve the dual purpose of containers for both prairie grasses and firewood. These are strategically positioned near the main fire pit, as well as the two smaller fire pits included in the landscape. Solid limestone, a local commodity, becomes the material for the benches which bookend each fire pit. 

It is hoped that during the summer months, demonstration burns could be conducted at a small scale to teach visitors about the techniques used by city naturalists to maintain prairie ecosystems. The scale of these demonstration areas would provide a safe educational opportunity for the community. 

Écobuage emphasizes the importance of fire to the prairies and provides a gathering space that is durable and suitable for all seasons. It is a celebration of the relationship between human and natural systems through the recognition of the importance of the phenomena of fire to the landscape we call home. 

“Today, we manage prairie ecosystems by means of fire management, which mimics the effects of natural prairie fires, but still allows us to build and live in close proximity to these dynamic places. A controlled burn is a management technique that involves the careful planning and execution of prairie grassland burning. This action clears up organic matter and stimulates the germination of new growth. Because so much of prairie grass biomass exists below the surface of the soil in extensive root systems, burning off the year’s growth does not harm the plants, but rather assists in the vigour of growth and regeneration in the following season. 

Building from these symbols of the relationship of humans and nature, as well as regrowth and renewal, Écobuage intends to introduce native species and build a sense of understanding of the importance of fire on the prairies, while creating a visually and physically engaging outdoor space that complements the functions of the newly designed pavilion.” [2]

References:

[1]       “ÉCOBUAGE / Controlled Burn.” PUBLIC CITY ARCHITECTURE. Accessed August 11, 2021. https://www.publiccityarchitecture.com/ecobuage-controlled-burn.

[2]       “Écobuage: The WINNIPEG Arts Council.” Winnipeg Arts Council. Accessed August 11, 2021. http://winnipegarts.ca/wac/artwork/ecobuage.

Additional information:

Architecture, City, Completed Projects, conservation, Functional, MAN, Manitoba, MB, Multi Use, Nature, Outdoor, Park, Permanent, Play, Public, Sculpture, Urban