Skater’s Arch by Douglas Bentham

The brightly coloured, circular structure achieves a dramatic pictorial presence. Its flowing, window-like form becomes a framing device capturing the dynamics of ice-skating. The push of the blade, as it cuts into the surface to propel the skater forward, is exemplified through a myriad of cutout shapes, which evoke the style of Henri Matisse, creating the sculptures dynamic form. A stepped, podium-like plinth combined with the sculpture’s frame like form create a welcoming symbol for the area – an artwork functioning as a place-maker identifying the facility and the activities therein. The setting encourages citizens and visitors to embrace it as a meeting place and to use it as a dramatic backdrop for photo opportunities.

SkatersArchRogers Place