It was a close vote, but councillors have decided that Moosekokie – the sculpture of a moose relaxing in a Muskoka chair in River Mill Park – will stay for now.
The sculpture was donated to the Town by artist Dan Gudmundson on a temporary basis for Canada 150 celebrations, with the long-term goal of adding it to the Town’s permanent collection of public art.
The agreement for the sculpture ends on October 11 and Town staff are recommending that it be extended to allow Moosekokie to remain in place until May 31, 2018. At that time, staff could see how it weathered the winter and council would be in a better position to decide if it wants to accept the piece permanently.
Councillor Bob Stone wasn’t in favour of he idea. “I think it was wonderful for the 150th of Canada. It’s cute, it’s fun, but personally I would like to see it go at the end of October.”
In response to a question by Councillor Dan Armour, Teri Souter, the Town’s Manager of Arts, Culture and Heritage, said that the Town has not received complaints about the sculpture. “Park staff say it is well used as a photo opportunity. People sit there a lot.”
By extending the agreement, the Town can assess what future maintenance costs for the sculpture might be without incurring any costs in the short-term. If council decides not to accept it into the Town’s permanent collection, it would be removed at the artist’s expense. If it stays, Gudmundson will replace the flagpole with a sculpted paddle in the spring of 2018. The flag that was part of the sculpture was stolen on July 1.
Souter noted that Gudmundson is in favour of the extended agreement to see how Moosekokie withstands a Muskoka winter. “He has never done one of these, he is also not sure how its going to weather.”
Councillors voted 4-3 to keep the sculpture – Mayor Scott Aitchison was not present for the meeting. Council still has to ratify the decision at its September meeting.
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The Moose is a terrific and fun view of idyllic Muskoka life – much more appropriate, in my view, than that eyesore sticking out of the river. Kudos to the artist, Dan Gudmundson, for bringing the smiles and cheer to so many enjoying this piece. Hope to see it there permanently!
I’m glad that Council voted to keep the moose. It’s whimsical and entertaining. Heaven knows we can use some levity in today’s world.
Folks there so many other things council should be focusing on if it makes people happy and makes kids smile is that not what a park is all about and it was free correct ? So stress the big stuff and leave the damn Moose alone
Randy Spencer
A nice place for a friendly moose to spend the winter.