Downtown Langley has a new piece of public art

The City of Langley and the family of the late Craig Davies unveiled a new piece of public art Feb. 24 at McBurney Plaza.

Designed to celebrate community spirit, the 1.52-metre-high art wall features phrases, including “give back,” “volunteer,” and “make a difference,” water jet cut into a curved sheet of aluminum.

“Mr. Davies was a strong leader and a consummate advocate for advancing the business community in downtown Langley,” said acting mayor Ted Schaffer. “He had a great passion for people and was very dedicated to our community.”

Davies operated Design One Graphics Group in Langley City for more than 30 years before his passing in June 2013.

He was named the George Preston Business Person of the Year by Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce in 2011. In addition to serving as chair of the Downtown Langley Business Association, Davies made significant contributions to many community events over the years, including the Arts Alive Festival, Langley City Community Day Parade and the annual Magic of Christmas Parade.

“This piece of public art captures the meaning of community and these words are a true reflection of what Craig Davies stood for,” said his son, Grant Davies. “Our family is honoured and extremely grateful that the City is supportive of placing it in McBurney Plaza because it’s located in the heart of downtown Langley and downtown Langley was always in the heart of my father.”

The family wanted art that linked in with Davies profession as a printer/graphic person.

“The message of making a difference, giving back, teamwork, getting involved, progress and caring represents what this community is all about.”

Phrases on the art wall: community, lend a hand, care, support, get involved, volunteer, make a difference, it matters, give back, together, help out, teamwork, growth, progress.