Mary-Ann Liu

Mary-Ann Liu is an award-winning Production Designer in Film as well as being a nationally significant sculptor. Her film awards include a Leo Award for Best Production Design in a Feature Film and a nomination for a Genie award. As a sculptor, she was honoured with the creation of Canada’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Ottawa. She also created the landmark dragon lanterns in Vancouver and Chicago’s historic Chinatowns amongst many other public sculptural installations across Canada.

Liu’s understanding of art principles such as composition and colour added with the dimension of time made designing film a welcomed challenge. Mary Ann Liu’s ability to connect emotionally to the greater public is a key in developing social engagement. It is an example of her mastery of visual communication and how to express the essential theme be it sculpture, film, or any other medium.  

A woman with long brown hair, glasses, and a gray sweater leaning on a leather couch with her arms crossed, smiling at the camera.

Artist statement

Outdoor decorative rocks on a concrete surface with a red lattice screen and glass windows in the background.

Art is not just for galleries; it thrives in the streets, parks, and plazas of our cities. Public art installations have the potential to shape our cultures and influence our daily lives. They should inspire us to engage with each other, appreciate our surroundings, and celebrate the rich tapestry that is urban life. Embrace the art in your community and let it lead the way to a more connected and expressive world.

A memorial with a helmet, a pair of shoes, and white flowers laid on a stone surface.

The Living Lounge

Big Happy

Blue abstract glass sculpture with multiple rounded projections, set on a round illuminated platform.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

A dragon sculpture on a light fixture attached to a pole against a blue sky, with electrical wires nearby.

Dragon Lanterns Vancouver