Emerging Local Artists Transform Downtown Construction Hoarding into Vibrant Canvas for Temporary Art Installations

    · 3 min read

    Public art initiative showcases Calgary's creative talent as part of the Arts Commons and Olympic Plaza Transformation projects

    As construction begins on the 170,000 square foot Arts Commons Transformation (ACT) expansion, Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC) and Arts Commons have unveiled a series of visual artworks on the newly installed construction site hoarding.

    “The ACT and OPT projects are significant investments in Calgary’s creative future, and Calgary’s artistic community plays a key role,” says Emma Stevens, CMLC’s Director of Communications & External Relations. “We know art contributes to a more vibrant, and revitalized downtown core, and creates experiences that resonate with Calgarians. We’re proud to partner with Arts Commons and RBC to showcase local artists and activate the site of the largest cultural infrastructure project underway in Canada.”

    Calgary-based artists Anthony T. Russell, Harvey Nichol, Josee La Güita, and Laura Caraballo — all alumni of the RBC Emerging Visual Arts Program at Arts Commons – were commissioned through a competitive RFP process to create a series of artworks that will be on display along the hoarding wall for the duration of construction, expected to be complete in 2028.

    Chish and Paula Timm, educators with Arts Commons’ arts education programs, worked with youth program participants and attendees of Arts Commons’ 2024 Plaza for All event to create four additional pieces for the installation.

    “Public art is essential to a thriving city and a vibrant downtown, and the calibre of artists selected for this project reflects the strength of Calgary’s creative community,” said Alex Sarian, Arts Commons President and CEO. “This initiative not only highlights the immense talent within the Arts Commons community, but also underscores the power of community partnerships to celebrate and elevate the voices of local artists. We are grateful for RBC’s continued partnership in fostering the next generation of artists in our city.”

    Since 2021, RBC’s Emerging Visual Artists Program has supported Calgary-based artists by providing an opportunity for visual artists to develop their creative practice, benefit from mentorship and showcase their work to the public through exhibitions, open studio, and speaking engagements.

    “We are dedicated to supporting the careers and development of emerging artists, and providing platforms to share their creativity,” say Kirk Muise, Regional President, Alberta & Territories at RBC. “We’re so pleased to partner with Arts Commons and CMLC on this initiative, which offers valuable exposure for these artists, and enhances the broader public experience in downtown Calgary. It’s exciting to see their work come to life as part of this transformation.”

    To date, over half the art panels are in place, with more to be added in the coming months as the construction fencing is installed.

    To learn more about the artists and their work, visit artscommons.ca/arts-commons-and-olympic-plaza-transformation-impact.

    Anthony T Russell

    Remember to Look Forward
    Remember to Look Forward
    Remember to Look Forward
    Remember to Look Forward

    Josee La Güita

    De Pétalo a Espiritu/From Petal to Spirit
    De Pétalo a Espiritu/From Petal to Spirit
    De Pétalo a Espiritu/From Petal to Spirit
    De Pétalo a Espiritu/From Petal to Spirit

    Harvey Nichol

    2020
    Voyage to the Unknown
    Bayanihan
    Rebirth

    Laura Caraballo

    Contemplation
    Contemplation
    Contemplation
    Contemplation

    Community Panels

    CHISH and Community, Common Unity, 2024
    Paula Timm, A Child's Viewpoint
    Paula Timm, A Child's Viewpoint
    Paula Timm, A Child's Viewpoint

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