JEMM Properties has partnered with the City of Calgary to bring Wishing Well, a multi-sensory and interactive public art piece, to the community of Bridgeland.
Originally located at the Genesis Centre, Wishing Well was moved into storage following concerns with sunlight reflecting from its interior surface. After undergoing specialized engineering studies based on its new location and the addition of a non-reflective coating, the sculpture has been deemed safe and is now ready to fulfill its intent as a dynamic addition to Calgary’s art scene.
In June of 2022, Wishing Well will move from storage to be installed at Bridge, a 285-unit mixed-use residential rental building developed by JEMM Properties. The sculpture will be installed within a plaza facing Murdoch Park, at the busy corner of 9th Street and McDougall Road N.E. This gathering space is specifically designed for pedestrian activity and is an easily accessible location for visitors to interact with Wishing Well.
“This has been a genuine collaboration with The City and the community and together we found an achievable way to get this spectacular sculpture out of storage.” said Edan Lindenbach, Principal of Land Planning & Development for JEMM. “There were open minds all around the table during our discussions with The City and that positivity got us to an exciting re-homing strategy that will see Wishing Well enjoyed by Calgarians. It’s kind of a come-back story — a win for the environment and a win for the community in getting people engaged with a landmark art piece. We’re pleased to have lent a hand by providing a safe and suitable location.”
The Bridgeland-Riverside Community Association was an enthusiastic supporter of bringing Wishing Well to its new location at Bridge.
“This brings a vibrant and interactive public art piece to Bridgeland alongside a beautiful building that will house more new neighbors and amenities,” said Ali McMillan, former Planning Director for the Bridgeland-Riverside Community Association. “It is wonderful to work with partners who are such an active part of the communities they are building.”
“I am so pleased with the collaboration between government and private industry for a creative solution that benefits The City, JEMM Properties, and Calgarians.” added Ward 9 Councillor Gian-Carlo Carra. “Very pleased to be keeping this important public art piece in NE Calgary and ensuring a rad home in a rad Ward 9 neighborhood.”
Wishing Well was created by renowned artists from Living Lenses of San Francisco. The sculpture evokes a shell splitting open to reveal a seed. It is made of stainless steel and weighs 2200 kilograms. Standing 3.88 metres tall, 5.36 metres wide and 4 metres deep it provides a landmark art piece within the community. Visitors can freely interact with Wishing Well by walking through it and around it, as well as experiencing digital displays within the sculpture.
For more information, contact Edan Lindenbach, Principal of Land Development for JEMM Properties at 403.333.3889
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JEMM Properties’ newest development, Bridge, is a 285-unit mixed-use residential rental building nearing completion in the heart of urban Bridgeland. Bridge will offer residents social spaces, extensive artwork and cutting-edge convenience, including electronic parcel delivery and smart building technology. Get connected at www.bridgeliving.ca to take a virtual tour and learn more.