Okotoks, AB: Eleven talented artists are ready to enhance the Okotoks charm with 19 vibrant murals. Earlier this year, the Town of Okotoks put out its first-ever public art call to artists, which resulted in submissions from 43 enthusiastic artists!
Council adopted a public art policy in 2023, allocating funds to create an art-rich environment that goes beyond mere aesthetics.
“Public art acts as a catalyst for economic vitality, attracting tourists, fostering community pride, and stimulating local businesses,” says Culture & Heritage team leader Allan Boss. “To truly harness the transformative power of art, it is important to recognize and support the artists whose creativity breathes life into our streets, creating a vibrant hub of expression and prosperity. It is wonderful to see Council supporting initiatives like this."
The public art program in Okotoks accomplishes many goals outlined in the Municipal Development Plan. These include creating vibrant, attractive neighbourhoods with a unique sense of place (2.3) and ensuring downtown is distinct, identifiable, and reflective of the unique culture of Okotoks (8.1). Additionally, it fulfills calls to action in the Culture, Heritage, and Arts Master Plan II, such as item C1: Develop public art policy and program.
The contracts for these mural projects total $43,750.00 and directly supports Alberta artists.
2024 Public Art Program and selected artists:
Respect for the Land Mural at the Arts & Learning Campus Plaza: Stoney Nakoda artist, Gordon Wesley, will paint a mural depicting the river crossing site as it looked before colonization.
Municipal Centre Windows: Two artists will paint festive murals on the Municipal Centre's windows to celebrate the Stampede/Summer and Light-Up events:
• Aly Tucker - Light-up Mural
• Komal Bishnoi - Stampede Mural
Safe Pathway Murals: Four artists will paint nine murals to add colour and communicate pathway safety messaging:
• Aly Tucker
• Jessica Taylor
• Sarah Johnson
• Stephanie Studzinski
Elevate the Elevator: Three artists will paint performing arts-themed murals on the elevator doors at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre:
• Claudia Weigelsberger
• Komal Bishnoi
• Yiting Hui
Beautiful Bin: 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
For more information about the Okotoks Public Art Program, please visit the Public Art page.