In Squamish, BC, 30 volunteers reimagined a retired diesel truck as Orcar, a 20-foot illuminated orca sculpture named after the revered Southern Resident whale Granny. This traveling work of art highlights the urgent need for ecological stewardship while sparking wonder about the ocean’s future.
- Orcar repurposes a diesel truck into a giant glowing orca sculpture
- Built by a diverse group of community volunteers over several months
- Now touring festivals to promote conversation on ocean conservation
What happened
Thirty volunteers gathered every Friday night from March to June 2026 at Create Makerspace in Squamish to transform a decommissioned diesel truck into Orcar, a 20-foot illuminated sculpture shaped like a Southern Resident orca named Granny. The project combined skills in welding, laser cutting, electronics, and more, drawing participants from beginners to seasoned makers.
The team constructed steel ribs to form the whale’s shape, added finely cut fins, and installed a complex lighting system with 7,000 LEDs. Despite technical challenges and the complexity of coordinating rotating participants, the community’s resilience and dedication brought Orcar to life as a symbol of shifting from fossil fuel use to ecological care.
Why it feels good
Orcar serves as a powerful symbol of transformation — from a machine that once contributed to fossil fuel emissions into a beacon of hope and regeneration. It invites people to reimagine humanity’s role as caretakers of the planet and fosters compassion for endangered wildlife like the Southern Resident orca.
By stepping inside the glowing whale, visitors experience a moment of wonder and inspiration that encourages reflection on our environmental impact and the urgent need to shift toward sustainable practices. The project exemplifies how art and community effort can create meaningful conversations about conservation and stewardship.
What to enjoy or watch next
After debuting on Vancouver Island at the Otherworld festival, Orcar is scheduled to appear at the Bass Coast Festival in Merritt, BC, and later at the Squamish Arts Festival in August, with more stops to be announced. These events give audiences across North America a chance to experience the sculpture firsthand and engage with its message.
Supporters can contribute to Orcar’s ongoing journey through an Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign that helps cover material costs and allows backers to receive special keepsakes from the project. Follow the journey online at @orcar.art on Instagram or visit orcar.art for updates and tour dates.