The Whole Person
Artist(s)
Date
1961
Object Type
sculpture
Medium
Bronze and brass bas relief
Dimensions
899.00 x 411.00 x 5.00 cm
Collections
Outdoor Sculpture Collection
Accession
A1976.007
Lionel Thomas’ The Whole Person represents York University’s dedication to educating the whole person. The focal point of the relief is referred to as the “lamp of learning” which evolves into a dove, symbolizing peace through education.
Ironically, the relief sculpture is constructed of bronze and brass, bronze being a material that has been traditionally used to create sculptures of great war leaders throughout history. The use of bronze in this sculpture subverts the metal’s traditional uses. As both bronze and brass are strong and durable materials, Thomas uses them in this sculpture to symbolize enduring peace through education, just as bronze has been historically used to symbolize a leader’s eternal impact.