A significant tribute is set to take place at Winterlude as the ice carving community honors the late Ryan Hill, a talented Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) sculptor. Hill, known for his impressive creations, including a nearly three-meter-tall Pegasus for the 2019 exhibition, passed away from a heart attack last year at the age of 50. This year’s Ice-Carving Public Challenge has been named in his memory, aiming to inspire future artisans to engage with ice carving.
Remembering Ryan Hill’s Legacy
Ryan Hill, from Six Nations of the Grand River, was not only an acclaimed ice carver but also skilled in wood and stone. He first participated in the Winterlude ice-carving challenge in 2013, where he secured the first-place position. His sister, Jacqueline Hill, fondly recalled his expansive creativity that shone during the international event in Ottawa.
An Inspirational Journey
Jacqueline shared insights into their upbringing, noting how their father crafted wooden lacrosse sticks and provided Ryan with tools from a young age. This nurtured his artistic talents and interest in carving. Ryan’s widow, Corrine Hill, expressed her honor in celebrating his work through this challenge and highlighted his passion to inspire others.
Ryan Hill’s Influence on Ice Carving
Chris Dainty, president of the Canadian Ice Carvers Society, reflects on his long partnership with Hill, emphasizing how Winterlude was pivotal in launching Ryan’s career. Dainty noted that Ryan’s background in stone and wood carving contributed to his remarkable skills in ice sculpting. He described Ryan’s ability to enrich the community with his cultural knowledge and artistry.
Challenging Sculptures and Techniques
In their collaboration, Hill and Dainty created the impressive Pegasus sculpture using 18 blocks of ice, each weighing 136 kilograms. The duo tackled the significant challenges of constructing large sculptures, particularly the delicate final phase where supports are cut away. This intense process requires precision to ensure the structure remains stable while defying gravity.
Upcoming Events at Winterlude
- The ice-carving exhibition takes place at Confederation Park in Ottawa.
- This year, twelve teams of two carvers will each receive 18 blocks of ice.
- The theme for this year is “Celebrating Our Northern Canadian Identity.”
- The Ryan Hill Ice-Carving Public Challenge is scheduled for February 7.
This special event not only celebrates Ryan Hill’s artistry but also invites participants to learn and connect with the craft of ice sculpting. Dainty encourages all aspiring sculptors to attend and try their hand at this unique art form.
