Christenson Bailey has been living in Vancouver’s Stanley Park for the past 34 years, setting up camp to make art, be inspired, and enjoy a peaceful existence. Over the years, Bailey has noticed significant changes in the park, including the removal of thousands of trees and the disappearance of certain bird melodies and natural features like flowing streams. Despite the changes, Bailey remains at peace with his surroundings, recognizing that life goes on and embracing the idea of continuity in the universe.
Although Bailey has plans to leave the park and reintegrate into mainstream society, the process has been slow and challenging. Efforts to help him obtain government identification and transition into housing have been complicated, with key individuals leaving their positions and delays in the process. The Vancouver Police Department and other city agencies are now stepping in to assist Bailey in preparation for his transition, as he has resisted previous attempts to move him from the park by force.
Bailey’s vision for his future includes becoming an artist in residence, living in shipping container housing, or returning to Montreal, ideally in a natural setting. He has undergone significant personal growth during his time in the park, shedding burdens and developing a sense of enlightenment through meditation, art, and the tranquility of the forest. Bailey credits his time in Stanley Park for helping him develop his analytical abilities and gain a deeper understanding of himself and his actions.
As Bailey prepares to leave the park after more than three decades, he faces the challenge of adjusting to a more structured and confined living environment. Despite his concerns about potentially feeling claustrophobic in housing, Bailey remains open to new opportunities and possibilities for his future. His unique journey from a corporate worker to a forest-dwelling artist reflects his resilience and adaptability in the face of change and uncertainty.
The story of Christenson Bailey offers a glimpse into the life of a man who has chosen a different path, seeking solace and inspiration in the natural world of Stanley Park. His deep connection to the park and his determination to continue living on his own terms highlight the complexities of homelessness and personal autonomy. As he prepares to transition into a new phase of his life, Bailey’s story serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength that can be found in unexpected places.
