If you’ve never been to Richmond’s pacific seaside areas, you’re missing out. Throughout the entire city their moto “pacific, authentic” is demonstrated with art. Dictating the quality art scattered throughout, the Public Art Trail focuses on three neighborhoods: Steveston Village, Richmond-Brighouse, and Richmond Oval.

With its beautiful scenery right at the harbour known has Fisherman’s Wharf, the picturesque Steveston Village is one of the most popular destinations in Richmond. If I had to recommend one that is a must-see, it has to be the Japanese-Canadian Fisherman’s Memorial “Wind”. Signifying an important event in the history and diverse culture of Canada, this is perhaps the most awe-inspiring piece of art here.

Marks, Richard. 2013. JPG file. / Pixabay

I used to pass by the Richmond-Brighouse art trails every Sunday on my way to tutoring. Without a doubt, the one art piece that is practically burned into my mind is the Minoru Horse near the Richmond Library. It honours the legacy of Richmond’s racing industry, and depicts an award-winning horse. When the statue was revealed in 2009, it drew descendants of the Brighouse family and celebrated the city’s cultural spirit.

Most of you probably have memory of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Although it mostly took place in Vancouver, there is no less commemoration in the Richmond Olympic Oval. Fitting the theme of the Olympics, it shows off dreamy art pieces such as Star Arc, Ice Blade, and Speed Skater. However, the main attraction is a huge red expertly crafted piece known as the Water Sky Garden. This is without a doubt my personal favorite in this area. Sort of like an illusion, this is actually made from hundreds of sky lanterns netted together, which reflects into the pond directly below it.

Richmond is often overlooked in terms of its artistic capabilities. With neighboring cities like Vancouver and Burnaby who both have famed art pieces, Richmond is no stranger to some of their own. The thriving public art scene in Richmond is sure to astonish any tourist or native.