The Fire Returns To Canal Convergence 2019 As Event Explores ‘The Story Of Water’
Scottsdale Public Art has announced that Walter Productions, the Scottsdale-based art studio behind last year’s popular “Floatus” installation and fire show, will be among the eight artists and studios featured at Canal Convergence | Water + Art + Light from Nov. 8–17 at the Scottsdale Waterfront.
The nightly fire shows from the “Floatus” installation in November 2018 helped draw many first-timers to Canal Convergence, more than tripling the event’s previous attendance record with over a quarter-million visitors. Now Walter Productions is returning with “Water Serpent,” a 200-foot-long, floating sculpture that shoots out fire along its metallic spine and spits sparks from its mouth. Like “Floatus,” “Water Serpent” will produce nightly, choreographed fire shows.
“Water Serpent” is just one of 10 installations by nine artists from around the world to be featured at this year’s event. Among the artworks joining it are the previously announced “Standing Wave” by Squidsoup.
This year’s Canal Convergence follows the theme of “The Story of Water,” and many of the large-scale, light-based installations will reference that theme. Most will also have interactive components. And some will explore ideas of sustainability in support of Canal Convergence’s goal of becoming a zero-waste event.
“We’re excited about the selection of artists for this November’s Canal Convergence, since our focus is on maintaining the excitement generated at last year’s event,” said Kim Curry-Evans, director of Scottsdale Public Art. “The artists selected will present artworks that engage, encourage interaction, intrigue and educate viewers about water, public art and light.”
In addition to the artworks, Canal Convergence features live music and dance performances, food vendors, a beer and wine garden, family-friendly activities, educational artist talks and creative workshops throughout the event, which is organized by Scottsdale Public Art, a branch of the nonprofit Scottsdale Arts, in conjunction with the City of Scottsdale and Salt River Project. Scottsdale Arts Learning & Innovation (formerly Scottsdale Arts Education & Outreach) organizes the workshops and educational activities.
