Digital Orca facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Digital Orca |
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The sculpture in 2013
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| Artist | Douglas Coupland |
| Year | 2009 |
| Medium | |
| Subject | Killer whale |
| Location | Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada |
| 49°17′23″N 123°07′00″W / 49.28977°N 123.11679°W | |
| Owner | Pavco |
Digital Orca is a cool sculpture of a killer whale (also known as an orca). It was created in 2009 by a famous artist named Douglas Coupland. You can find it right next to the Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
This amazing artwork is made from aluminium that's been powder-coated, which means it has a tough, colorful finish. It's built on a strong stainless steel frame. The sculpture is owned by Pavco, a company that manages big venues like BC Place Stadium and the Vancouver Convention Centre.
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What is the Digital Orca?
The Digital Orca sculpture looks like a giant killer whale made out of building blocks or pixels. Imagine a picture on a computer screen, but in real life! This unique style makes the orca look like it's made from digital data, which is why it's called "Digital Orca." It's a very modern piece of art that stands out in the city.
Why a Digital Orca?
Killer whales are very important animals in British Columbia. They live in the waters off the coast and are a symbol of the region's wildlife. Douglas Coupland chose to make the orca look "digital" to show how technology is a big part of our world today. Vancouver is also a city known for its tech industry, so the sculpture connects nature with modern digital life.
Who is Douglas Coupland?
Douglas Coupland is a well-known Canadian artist and writer. He often explores themes like technology, pop culture, and modern life in his work. His art pieces are usually very thought-provoking and have a unique style, just like the Digital Orca. He likes to make art that makes people think about the world around them.
Where Can You See It?
The Digital Orca is located in a busy and beautiful part of Vancouver. It's right by the Vancouver Convention Centre, which is a large building used for big meetings and events. The sculpture is also near the waterfront, where you can see ships and the ocean. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to visit and take photos.
How Was It Made?
Creating a large sculpture like the Digital Orca takes a lot of planning and skill. The artists used strong materials like aluminium and stainless steel to make sure it would last a long time outdoors. The "pixelated" look was carefully designed to give it that unique digital appearance. It's a great example of how art can be both creative and engineered.
Why is Public Art Important?
Public art, like the Digital Orca, is art that is placed in public spaces for everyone to enjoy. It makes cities more interesting and beautiful. These artworks can also tell stories, celebrate local culture, or make a statement. The Digital Orca adds to Vancouver's identity and gives people something special to see as they walk around the city.
