Howie Mandel Meets His Giant Foam Doppelgänger in North Bay
Dan Seguin, the eccentric artist and recycler of North Bay, has never shied away from embracing the unconventional. His latest creation, a life-size Howie Mandel head carved from an eight-foot-tall block of foam, is a testament to his bold spirit and creativity. The story of this unique piece began with a Guinness World Record attempt, but it took an unexpected turn when Seguin decided to showcase his art in person to the famous comedian.
The Journey to the Giant Head
Seguin's initial plan was to create a giant Ellen DeGeneres head, but she retired before he could finish. He then pivoted to a Canadian theme, choosing Howie Mandel as the subject. The timing was perfect; Howie Mandel was set to perform at the Capitol Centre on September 27, providing Seguin with the opportunity to meet his idol. Despite not completing the full 'Stairway to Howie' (a giant Howie body), Seguin's creation still impressed the 70-year-old comic.
A Memorable Encounter
During the meeting, Howie Mandel was captivated by Seguin's creation. He found it hilarious and even made Seguin bobble the head, mimicking the famous comedian's mannerisms. This lighthearted interaction left a lasting impression on Seguin, who hoped it would lead to an invitation to appear on 'Canada's Got Talent,' where Howie Mandel is a judge. However, he was unaware that the show was on hiatus.
Seguin's Vision for the Future
Inspired by the encounter, Seguin is now exploring new avenues for his artistic talents. He's considering transforming his Cassells Street home into a Canadian icon's Mount Rushmore, featuring giant heads of Shania Twain, Wayne Gretzky, Pamela Anderson, and Justin Bieber. This ambitious project reflects Seguin's unwavering dedication to his Canadian theme and his willingness to push boundaries.
Seguin's Unabashed Creativity
Despite the city's occasional criticism, Seguin remains undeterred. He embraces his role as an artist, stating, 'I'm going on the extreme on the house for a Canadian theme. I do what I like to do at my house. The city loves to give me a hard time, but I'm an artist, and if you like it, you like it, if you don't, you don't.' This attitude has become a hallmark of his unique and captivating creations.
