Public Art Unveiling: This Is Us by Marie Khouri
March 27, 2026
We spoke with the artist behind a striking new installation created for Ironwood—a piece that explores connection, reflection, and the shared human experience.
Titled “This is Us,” the work is a bespoke sculpture by Marie Khouri, an internationally recognized artist whose practice spans decades and continents. Known for her bold, expressive forms, Khouri brings a deeply personal and human dimension to this latest collaboration with Qualex-Landmark.
Born in Egypt, raised in Lebanon, and based in Canada since 1975, Khouri’s work is shaped by a rich cultural perspective and a lifelong exploration of movement, community, and connection. Her contributions to the arts have been widely recognized, including receiving the Award of Distinction from the BC Achievement Foundation.
A sculpture shaped by human presence
“This is my first time adding a human aspect to an artwork,” Khouri explains. “Every single one of us can be reflected through the structures. Their shadow will be cast in the same way as yours.”
With “This is Us,” Khouri invites viewers to become part of the piece itself. As light shifts and people move around the sculpture, shadows are cast and recast—creating an ever-evolving visual experience that mirrors the diversity and unity of the community it represents.
The work reflects a central idea: that art is not static, but something activated by presence. Each interaction subtly transforms the piece, reinforcing a sense of shared space and collective identity.
The role of art in building community
At Ironwood, the integration of public art is about more than aesthetics—it’s about creating meaningful moments of connection. Much like the community itself, “This is Us” is designed to bring people together, encouraging reflection, curiosity, and interaction in everyday life.
Through its form and concept, the sculpture echoes the values at the heart of Ironwood: inclusivity, belonging, and a deep sense of place. It stands as both a visual landmark and a symbolic gathering point—where individual experiences intersect to form something larger.
Experiencing the work in person
“This is Us” is now on display at The Exhibit, located at 622 Kemsley Avenue in Coquitlam. Visitors are invited to experience the installation firsthand and explore how light, form, and movement come together in this immersive piece.
As with all of Khouri’s work, the meaning of “This is Us” is not fixed—it evolves with every person who encounters it.
In that way, the sculpture becomes more than an installation. It becomes a reflection of all of us.