Ephemeral Perch

Lane Shordee

Carved from large boulders and placed in the ephemeral stream, these seats face away from each other and give the viewer a unique perspective to contemplate their relationship with the landscape.

About this work

In the middle of Elbow Island park is an ephemeral stream which can only be crossed using a rock ford. These stepping stones are flanked by large boulders, carved into seats providing a perch to rest above flowing waters. In the artist's words, "each seat faces a different direction, giving viewers two unique experiences. In one direction, the water flows away; in the other, water flows towards. The stones represent our species' relationship with the land as witnesses and stewards. When viewing the landscape in different ways, we consider its inevitable transformation. Over time these boulders will shift, making them more challenging to sit on."

Details

Title
Ephemeral Perch
Type
Functional
Creator
Lane Shordee(Artist)

Location & access

Elbow Island Park

650 Rideau Rd SW

Calgary, Alberta, CA T2S 0R6

Publicly accessible
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Last updated March 20, 2026

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Ephemeral Perch

Lane Shordee

Carved from large boulders and placed in the ephemeral stream, these seats face away from each other and give the viewer a unique perspective to contemplate their relationship with the landscape.

About this work

In the middle of Elbow Island park is an ephemeral stream which can only be crossed using a rock ford. These stepping stones are flanked by large boulders, carved into seats providing a perch to rest above flowing waters. In the artist's words, "each seat faces a different direction, giving viewers two unique experiences. In one direction, the water flows away; in the other, water flows towards. The stones represent our species' relationship with the land as witnesses and stewards. When viewing the landscape in different ways, we consider its inevitable transformation. Over time these boulders will shift, making them more challenging to sit on."

Details

Title
Ephemeral Perch
Type
Functional
Creator
Lane Shordee(Artist)

Location & access

Elbow Island Park

650 Rideau Rd SW

Calgary, Alberta, CA T2S 0R6

Publicly accessible
Google Maps

Nearby

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Last updated March 20, 2026

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