Anticipation

John Vickers, Anticipation

Anticipation is a permanent bronze sculpture of a nesting Canadian goose that commemorates local resident, Paul White, one of Pickering's longest serving presidents of a community association.

About the Artwork

Anticipation is a permanent bronze sculpture of a nesting Canadian goose that serves as tribute to local resident, Paul White, one of Pickering's longest serving president's of a community organization.  A familiar presence at Fairport Community Park, the bird is a symbolic representation of home, belonging, resilience, migration, and the cyclical rhythms of nature; all qualities that align closely with White's lifelong commitment to community and environmental stewardship.

The imagery of a mother goose preparing to nurture her brood invites reflection on the universal experience of arrival and renewal, an experience that unites generations, from early settlers to contemporary immigrant families.  The sculpture stands as a celebration of both natural and human kinship, grounded in place, community and care.

About the Artist

John R. Vickers art practice reflects a lifelong dedication to nature, heritage and craftmanship.  Graduating from McMaster University in 1970 with a degree in mechanical engineering, he earned his certification from the Association of Professional Engineers of Ontario in 1972.  Over a distinguished forty-five year career in the metal casting industry, Vickers specialized in the design, fabrication, and commissioning of production systems, including advanced pollution control technologies. His professional accomplishments culminated in his tenure as President of the Canadian Foundry Association.

Since 2025, Vickers has served as Sales Manager at Hopper Foundry, a family-owned art bronze foundry in Southern Ontario, where he collaborated closely with sculptors to transform their creative visions into cast bronze works.  Now focusing on his art, Vickers channels his technical expertise and reverence for the natural world into bronze sculptures depicting the wildlife of Ontario.  His work embodies a deep respect for conservation, craftmanship, and the enduring relationship between art, industry and the environment.