Focus on this artwork and explain the Background.
On December 6, 1917, almost 2000 people were killed by the accidental explosion of the French ammunition ship Mont-Blanc in Halifax Harbour. The Halifax Relief Commission was created to take over relief and rehabilitation work, as well as the reconstruction of the city. In 1965 the Relief Commission donated $100,000 to assist construction of library branch in the North End of Halifax which would serve as a memorial to those killed in the disaster. The library was built in 1966. As part of the new library, architects Keith L. Graham & Associates commissioned artist Jordi Bonet to create an outdoor sculpture that would commemorate the disaster and rebirth of the city. Bonet was a Spanish-born sculptor who worked in Quebec and who was known for his work with public art and spirituality.
Jordi Bonet North End of Halifax Halifax Halifax Harbour public art Quebec