Bringing the Megaphone Back Home: The Return of Speaker’s Corner back to Jim Deva Plaza

Yesterday marked a special day in the heart of Davie Village, as the iconic ‘Speaker’s Corner’ at Jim Deva Plaza returned to its original home, after being removed for repair and restoration work. Affectionately knows as the Megaphone, the hot pink and turquoise sculpture, designed by Hapa Collaborative, stands as a vibrant tribute to Jim Deva, an influential advocate for free speech and equality within Vancouver’s LGBTQ2+ community.

A Bit of a Background

Unveiled in 2016, the Speaker’s Corner at Jim Deva Plaza quickly became a beloved fixture at the intersection of Bute and Davie. Its striking design, resembling a gramophone with a flower petal border, not only adds a touch of joy and color to the area but also serves as a poignant reminder of Deva’s tireless efforts in championing free speech rights. The sculptures vibrant palette references the original rainbow flag, specifically the pink and turquoise stripes.

Today: A Much-Needed Refresh

Since its completion, the sculpture has stood resilient against the elements and the bustling activity of Davie Village. However, like any cherished public art piece, it required repairs and restoration work to renew its vibrant presence. Our client undertook this significant task, meticulously restoring the sculpture to its former glory. The refresh not only rejuvenated the colors and structural integrity but also reinforced the pieces role as a symbol of community and resilience.

Our Job: The Journey Home

Transporting such a piece is no small feat and requires attention to detail and planning logistics, including obtaining a wide load permit. Our team was honoured to assist in transporting and installing the Speaker’s Corner back to its original location. Our 61-ton knuckle boom crane with its pintle trailer featured in this video, was the perfect equipment for this job.

A New Chapter Begins

As the Speaker’s Corner settles back into its rightful place, it stands ready to continue its role as a vibrant hub for free speech, community gatherings, and artistic expression. The refreshed sculpture now gleams with renewed vigor, ready to inspire and uplift all who encounter it.

If you haven’t seen the piece yet, be sure to look for it when you are in the West End. We’re sure you’ll find it truly impactful.