Pulling Together

Mobil Oil Canada discovered the Pembina Oil Field that began the boom in Drayton Valley, basically giving the town life. It seemed fitting that Mobil Oil was involved in creating a lasting cultural symbol for the citizens of Drayton Valley. After careful thought, Mobil Oil and the town agreed on a bronze monument at the new Civic Centre, reflecting Drayton Valley’s theme: “Pulling Together.” The theme was inspired by a photograph of schoolchildren engaged in a tug o’ war.

This image represents the future of the community—a growing population striving to achieve their goals together. The statue, donated by Mobil Canada, is dedicated to the people of Drayton Valley. It was unveiled February 15, 1991.

The Sculptor
Born in Cochrane, Alberta, Don Begg studied sculpture and bronze casting in Alberta, New York and California. Don’s bronze sculptures, depicting wildlife, historic figures, western scenes and the oil and gas industry, have received awards and high recognition in Canada and the United States. Don and his wife Shirley run Studio West Ltd.

“Pulling Together” was designed and sculpted by Don Begg as a 12-inch model at his Studio. It was then enlarged and cast in bronze using the “lost wax” method. The finish, a warm brown patina, was chosen to enhance the statue’s vitality. The statue weighs approximately 1,500 pounds, stands 5′ 2½” high, is 8′ 11½” long and has a 24¼” wide base.

Some of the other statues cast at Studio West include Wayne Gretzky, a 12-foot-tall sitting eagle, Brigadier General Andrew Hamilton Gault, Lester B. Pearson, John Diefenbaker and The Bullwhacker.

Studio West Bronze Foundry & Art Gallery
205 – 2nd Avenue SE, Industrial Park Cochrane AB T4C-1A7
Phone:    403-932-2611