Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the main international airport serving Vancouver, British Columbia, located on Sea Island in Richmond, about 12 km southwest of downtown. It is Canada’s second-busiest airport and a major gateway between North America and Asia, serving dozens of airlines and destinations worldwide. Known for its strong Indigenous-inspired architecture, passenger experience, and sustainability initiatives, YVR is consistently ranked among the best airports in North America and is easily accessible via the Canada Line SkyTrain.
The 1:500 scale model of Vancouver International Airport (YVR) was Kyle Chen’s first public architectural display. Featured at YVR’s observation deck, the model was shown to the world.
Kyle has a passion for aviation and architecture; therefore, the 1:500 scale model of YVR acted as a bridge between his 2 interests. Contacting YVR’s CEO and President, Tamara Vrooman, she approved of Kyle’s display. The model of YVR was first displayed at YVR in the Spring of 2024.
In Kyle’s work, the YVR model was not only a way to express his craftsmanship for model building, but a reminder to all about the importance of airports. During the creation of this model, it was a time period when COVID-19 had just passed. A time when everyone tried to return back to their so-called “Normal” lifestyle. Chen reflected on his experience by looking back at how airports played a vital role in assisting the world through rough times, such as the pandemic.
In the news, Kyle saw how airports were the epicenter for where goods, medicines, and people were transported. A hub that allowed our world to work together, a true global connector. Therefore, through this model, it shares a message of how airports are hubs for connectedness, gathering, and global communication.
On the day of the unveiling event, YVR’s President and CEO attended the model unveiling event, where both Tamara and Kyle discussed the future of YVR and how they are looking forward to a more sustainable airport.
The unveiling event also hosted VSB Trustee Alfred Chien, UBC SALA adjunct professor YT, and school representatives. In Kyle’s first public display, he shared how students and young people can contribute to public art spaces. Chen’s work not only shares his talent and interest in architecture and design, but also a way to share how architecture can highlight stories and memories.
Medium: Foam, Wood, Plastic, Cardboard, & Diecast Planes
Date of Completion: May 21, 2024
Location: Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
Leave a Reply