The Victoria Scottish Community Centre will be holding an event in early May to unveil their new welcome sign, which showcases Scottish heritage through its craftsmanship and symbolism.
This new welcome sign was handcrafted as a testament to ancient Scottish trades, such as traditional stone carving, blacksmithing and authentic stonemasonry
Additionally, the sign was designed and crafted by Heritage Masonry, an Esquimalt-based business who utilized local materials from Vancouver Island in the process of constructing the unique piece.
The Victoria Scottish Community Centre says that a standout feature of the project is the hand-carved unicorn, which is Scotland’s national animal, sculpted by master carver and award-winning Duncan-based artist Andrew Swinley.
“The unicorn is carved from a sandstone boulder sourced from Gabriola Island, generously donated by BC Marble Products in Chemainus,” said a Victoria Scottish Community Centre spokesperson in a media release.
“Complementing the unicorn carving, a finely crafted forged metal thistle, Scotland’s national flower, was created by acclaimed Metchosin-based sculptor Jake James, adding depth to the sign’s symbolic significance.”
To enshrine the new sign with Scottish tradition, its design features a rare vertical drystone walling technique, which was historically used in Scotland and southern England.
The sign was finished by topping it with soil and heather, which emulate the traditional peat caps seen in walls of the Scottish Highlands.
The unveiling event for this sign will include remarks from the artists and contractors involved, as well as local dignitaries, including Jim Maxwell, Executive Director of the Victoria Scottish Community Centre.
Members of the community are invited to join this celebration of Scottish heritage, traditional craftsmanship and community pride on Sunday, May 4th, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Victoria Scottish Community Centre, located at 1803 Admirals Road.
