Murals by 11 artists to elevate charm of Alberta town

by marika_gabriel | 24 May 2024 6:00 pm

Okotoks, Alta., is set to receive a makeover with the creation of 19 murals by 11 local artists. Following a public art call that drew submissions from 43 artists, this initiative aims to elevate the town’s charm with captivating artwork.

In 2023, the council embraced a public art policy aimed at fostering an art-rich environment. This policy allocates funds to support projects such as mural installations. This involves creating murals for facility windows, pathways, elevator doors, and an Indigenous-themed mural for our Arts and Learning Campus Plaza.

Okotoks’ public art program accomplishes many objectives outlined in the Municipal Development Plan, including aiming to create vibrant neighbourhoods with “a unique sense of place”, and ensuring downtown is distinct, identifiable, and reflective of the culture of Okotoks. Additionally, it fulfills calls of action to develop a public art policy and program.

The allocated contracts for these mural projects amount to $43,750, directly supporting Alberta artists.

The 2024 Public Art Program and artists:

Respect for the Land Mural at the Arts & Learning Campus Plaza: Stoney Nakoda, Alta., artist, Gordon Wesley, will paint a mural depicting the river crossing site as it looked before colonization.

Two artists will paint festive murals on the Municipal Centre’s windows:

• Aly Tucker – Light-up Mural
• Komal Bishnoi – Stampede Mural

Four artists will paint nine murals to communicate pathway safety messaging:

• Aly Tucker
• Jessica Taylor
• Sarah Johnson
• Stephanie Studzinski

Three artists will paint performing arts-themed murals on the elevator doors at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre:

• Claudia Weigelsberger
• Komal Bishnoi
• Yiting Hui

Four artists will design and paint four garbage receptacles at the Okotoks Recreation and Foothills Centennial Centre:

• Aly Tucker
• Sterling Smith
• Cecilia Leddy
• Whitney Thompson

“Public art acts as a catalyst for economic vitality, attracting tourists, fostering community pride, and stimulating local businesses,” says culture and heritage team leader of the Town of Okotoks, Allan Boss.

Source URL: https://www.signmedia.ca/murals-by-11-artists-to-elevate-charm-of-alberta-town/

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