The Spirit of Kelowna

One hundred and two of the medallions were designed and formed by Kelowna residents during a series of 10 workshops at the artist's studio between May and September 2007. The other 2 medallions were designed and formed by artist Geert Maas and project coordinator Elly Maas. Each medallion is a personal interpretation of the theme by the participants who were aged 10 and up. Each medallion also reflects a year of the City’s history, from its incorporation in 1905 to 2007.

Participants committed 15-20 hours of work to build a clay model, pour a plaster mold, and create a wax replica which was then sent to a local foundry for casting. Participants returned to the studio for the final work of applying patina and polishing. Geert and Elly Maas coordinated, guided, and supported participants, many of who did not have previous experience with the medium. The medallions were later installed on a specially-created wall in the foyer of City Hall.