New living art sculpture to be unveiled in Southside Park for Woodstock’s 125th anniversary

The sculpture was created by Santoline Mosaiculture, a Canadian company that is world renowned for their horticultural art.

The design is a nod to Woodstock’s past, a symbol of the future, and a reflection of the City’s commitment to heritage, culture, recreation and the environment.

Butterflies represent hope, change and resilience. As pollinators, they also play an important role in the biodiversity and ecological health of the park. The metal base recognizes Woodstock’s industrial backbone and the skilled trades and businesses that helped the city grow over 125 years.

“Each butterfly includes 2,000 annual plants that have to be carefully grown and maintained every year. We’re lucky to have a fantastic horticulture team that is helping to make this project a reality. It will also be a wonderful learning opportunity for our seasonal staff and summer students,” added Vanderspek.

The butterflies, which are located in the heart of the park near the gazebo and annual garden beds, will be officially unveiled at the City’s Canada Day celebration on July 1.

The Parks Department plans to partner with local artists and horticultural experts to offer ongoing programming, such as annual colour-palette changes, educational workshops and tours.

The sculpture will also tie into the planned expansion of Southside Park to the former golf course lands south of Parkinson Road.

“The expansion is going to double the size of the park and enhance outdoor recreation through the natural environment, wetlands, pollinator habitats and multi-use trails,” explained Reta Horan, Supervisor of Parks and Forestry.

“The butterflies are a first step to connecting the existing park space to the new section through public art.”