Imagine a man with an insatiable passion for art, a creative genius who spent many long years breathing life into concrete and steel. Winston Bronnum, a Canadian artist and sculptor, was that man.
Born on March 21, 1929 and raised in New Brunswick, Bronnum’s artistic journey was proof of his innovative spirit and creativity.
From a young age, Bronnum was interested in art and the world around him. He spent hours carving wooden animals in his studio, teaching himself the intricacies of sculpture and design.
As he grew older, his passion only intensified, leading him to create larger-than-life masterpieces that would captivate the hearts of people across the country.
His creations, including “Jumbo the Elephant” in Ontario, “Blowhard the broken-down racehorse,” the Maugerville potato, and of course, the Shediac lobster, were more than just sculptures – they were testaments to his artistic vision.
A Man of Innovation
Bronnum’s artistic journey was marked by a series of innovative and often unconventional projects. He was always pushing the boundaries of what was possible with art and sculpture.
His use of concrete and steel as primary materials was novel at the time, and his ability to transform these materials into intriguing looking creatures was somewhat magical.
One of Bronnum’s most deviceful projects was Animaland, a theme park and sculpture garden he founded in the 1960s.
The park was a destination for families and tourists, featuring a collection of concrete animal sculptures that showcased Bronnum’s creativity and skill.
From giant giraffes to playful bears, the animals of Animaland were there to demonstrate Bronnum’s imagination and artistry.
However, Animaland was more than just a collection of sculptures – it was an immersive experience that allowed visitors to step into a world of wonder and enchantment.
Bronnum’s attention to detail was unparalleled, and his commitment to creating an alluring encounter was evident in every aspect of the park.
From the winding pathways to the carefully crafted landscaping, every element of Animaland was designed to transport visitors to a world of fun and adventure.
The Shediac Lobster: A Masterpiece Born of Controversy
When the Shediac Rotary Club proposed the idea of building a giant lobster statue, Bronnum was the perfect candidate for the job. But there was controversy surrounding the project.
It was costly – over $170,000.00 – and some in the town thought the money could best be spent elsewhere. The project eventually went ahead.
For three years, Bronnum poured his heart and soul into the project, researching, studying and experimenting with different materials and techniques.
The result was a massive, 11-metre-long, 5-metre-tall lobster made of reinforced concrete and steel, weighing an impressive 82 metric tonnes.
The sculpture was unveiled on June 30th, 1990.
A Legacy that Lives On
Winston Bronnum passed away on September 10, 1991. He was 62.
His legacy extends far beyond his artwork. He was a true original, a man who saw the world in a unique and captivating way. His passion for art and innovation impressed many people, and his creations continue to delight and inspire new generations.
As for the giant lobster in Shediac, it’s more than just a sculpture – it’s a confirmation of Bronnum’s creativity, inventive spirit, and passion for art. It’s a reminder that, with determination and vision, anything is possible, and that the boundaries of art and imagination are limitless.
Bronnum’s legacy serves as a reminder to always push the boundaries of what is possible, to never be afraid to take risks, and to always follow your passion, no matter where it may lead.
