Montreal’s Parc Jean-Drapeau is getting 3 giant new plant sculptures

Montreal’s Parc Jean-Drapeau is about to become a playground for giants… of the jolly green variety. The Société du Parc Jean-Drapeau announced on May 8 that Île Sainte-Hélène will soon feature three iconic plant-based works from the Mosaïcultures Internationales de Montréal.

The massive sculptures, "Mother Earth," "The Man Who Planted Trees," and a custom piece featuring six pairs of "Ys" (a nod to the park’s logo), are far from garden variety additions. They embody themes of ecological transition and collaboration.

"Mother Earth," a figure with flowing hair made of cascading plants, will symbolize eco-consciousness, while "The Man Who Planted Trees" tells a story of reforestation and the power of individual actions through a shepard planting a tree in the desert.

"The Man Who Planted Trees" is an homage to the animated film of the same name by Frédéric Back.Groupe CNW/Société du parc Jean-Drapeau

Both living pieces will grace the canal gardens, as part of the park’s the park's extensive renovation efforts.

The decade-long project involves an overhaul of Mont Boullé, a hill on Île Sainte-Hélène celebrated for its distinct geology, flora, and historical significance. Enhancements include the creation of an ecological corridor featuring a layered, dense forest that creates a better habitat for the area’s wildlife.

Nearby, the crumbing remains of Espace 67, the concrete square that hosted the Expo 67 opening ceremony, is undergoing a complete rebuild too. The incoming plant sculptures are part of plans to greenify Parc Jean-Drapeau with living art.

"Mother Earth" on display in Gatineau.Groupe CNW/Société du parc Jean-Drapeau

It won't be the first time the giant artworks have been displayed in Montreal. A decade ago, "The Man Who Planted Trees" was himself planted on the Montreal side of the Jacques Cartier Bridge.

Before that, "Mother Earth" could be visited at the Montreal Botanical Garden. Both works were later installed at Mosaïcultures on the waterfront in Gatineau, a site that has since closed.

Now, they're coming back for good. The botanical giants will be on permanent display as of 2025.