The Town of Okotoks is excited to share that a beloved piece of local art has returned to its home. The bronze buffalo head sculpture, created by acclaimed Indigenous artist Rocky Barstad, was carefully repaired and reinstalled on September 16 after sustaining damage earlier this year.
“Public art is a powerful way to connect people to place,” said Allan Boss, Culture & Heritage Team Leader for the Town of Okotoks. “This sculpture is not only a beautiful work by a world-class artist, but also a symbol of our community’s commitment to reconciliation and community identity. We’re thrilled to see it back where it belongs.”
Rocky Barstad is a respected First Nations artist originally from Morley near the Stoney First Nation. He’s known for his expressive paintings and bronze sculptures that reflect Indigenous culture and the foothills landscape. His public artworks appear across Alberta, including murals at the Calgary Stampede LRT station and the Royal Alberta Museum.
Bringing the sculpture back to its rightful place was a true collaboration. The Town’s Culture and Heritage and Parks departments worked hand in hand with internationally acclaimed bronze sculptor Don Begg to complete the repair and reinstallation. Their work reflects the Town’s ongoing commitment to preserving public art and celebrating our community’s identity.
Find an interactive map to check out local public art at okotoks.ca/public-art