Magical messages along False Creek

At least three times a week, I go for a run (or brisk walk) along the False Creek seawall with my dog, Dutchie. I start at the park across the street from Olympic Village and make my way all along to the dog park next to False Creek Elementary. Since this route has become a regular part of my life, I’ve gotten to know its nuances – the row of barren trees that are often crowded with a murder of crows, boat names with bizarre names (Cash Sails, High Risk, Resolution), the enclosed dog park. I’ve also become quite smitten with some poignant, mysterious messages that been placed along the way.

First off, let me stress that I’m not encouraging vandalism or graffiti. However, these beautiful little signs/markers mysteriously appeared and haven’t yet been taken away. The creative messages, which appear in random places and range in size, add some depth and whimsy to the route and have inspired me deeply.  Here are some of my favourites.

There Is Still Much To Be Done, Let Us Not Lose Sight

This one can be found on the paved, fenced in path between the Vancouver police parking lot and Spyglass ferry, under the Cambie Street bridge. As someone who’s continually striving towards ambitious goals, I relate strongly to it. I even took a picture of it and used it as my desktop.

Smiley Face

A little while ago, when I was struggling with some hard times, I made a vow to smile every time I see a smiley face. It was just something small that seemed to help lift the spirits, even just a touch. This smiley face in particular really does the trick. Located near the Cambie Street bridge, it’s hidden among the rocks on the other side of the seawall that lead into the water. It only pops its face out when the sea levels are down. It’s almost like a happy face wasted upon the shore, waiting to make someone smile.

I’ll Miss This When It’s Gone

This one is found in the forested area across from the dog park, on the rocks that lead to the water. While a wee bit macabre, it reminds us that we should never take our beautiful city and all it has to offer, for granted.

BONUS: Paint Swath/A False Creek

This one’s a message on more of a abstract level. These blue stripes that are painted on the pillars that hold up the Cambie Street bridge always remind me of those colour swaths you get at the paint store. Turns out it’s actually commission artwork by Rhonda Weppler and Trevor Mahovsky, appropriately titled “A False Creek”.  The piece comments on rising water levels that are expected in the next few decades and “reflect on the past, present and future of Vancouver’s highly managed shoreline.” Click here to learn more about A False Creek.

Do you know the story behind these mysterious messages along False Creek? Can you think of any others around town? Leave us a message below.

Article source: http://www.insidevancouver.ca/2013/01/25/magical-messages-along-false-creek/