William Hodd (Bill) McElcheran

Heffel Auction House Biography and Notes

William McElcheran trained in sculpture at the Ontario College of Art and was also an architectural designer. He started as a woodworker, specializing in art and furniture for churches. He rose to be chief designer for Bruce Brown and Brisely Architects, and worked on planning and designing 23 churches and university buildings. He formed Daedalus Designs in 1973, the purpose of which was integrating sculpture with architecture. His best-known sculpture subject is the iconic businessman, shown caught in the whirl of his corporate life. McElcheran depicted these businessmen as robust and self-possessed, constantly in movement. Their conformity is indicated by their classic dress of overcoat, hat, suit and tie, carrying various business paraphernalia such as briefcases. His viewpoint was both satirical and compassionate, drawing us to sympathize with them, as urbanites often feel caught in the bustle and roles of modern life. McElcheran's businessmen can be seen in many public installations across Canada and in the United States, Germany, Italy and Japan. In Toronto his businessmen are installed in Yorkville, on King Street, St. Clair Avenue and at the University of Toronto.