As I communicated earlier Council voted to designate “Shift” as being of cultural heritage value or interest on 2/25/13.   By-law to reflect this decision was passed 05/27/13.  Again, I can truly say that I am proud to have been participated in this decision. 

You can read the full bylaw here. 

For me the “essence” of why this is important is very nicely summarized in the closing paragraphs of the by-law.

“Shift” “demonstrates or reflects the work or ideas of an architect, artist, builder, designer or theorist who is significant to a community”. The two “communities” are: the art community; and the residents of the Township of King.

The provincial, national and international art community and those interested in art consider “Shift” to be a pivotal work of modern art by a sculptor of international standing, as is manifest in the many publications both in print and online which emphasize the value of this work to modern art.

The residents of the Township of King have demonstrated that “Shift” is of value to their community through their interest and efforts to protect this work of art exerted over a period of time. The process of designation under the Ontario Heritage Act is a powerful indicator of any community’s sincere manifestation of community value. “Shift” was intentionally designed for this location and this location only. By its very design and location, and by the attachment that has grown in the heart of the community, “Shift” is utterly and immovably rooted in the community of the Township of King.”

Indeed the international art community is interested as demonstrated by this story in the New York Times about the designation.

Designation only preserves the work.  It does not change its ownership or its accessibility to public.  It continues to be privately owned and much to my regret, and of others, the owner has not yet decided to allow the public to view it.