New Artwork for 2018 has been selected

Council approves eleven new pieces of public art to be installed in 2018

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed January 19, 2018 11:45 AM

On January 15, 2018, Council approved eleven new pieces of public art as part of the 2018 Temporary Outdoor Public Art Program. A total 28 submissions were received from a variety of artists and teams across Canada in response to a "Call for Artists" issued by the City of Nanaimo Purchasing Department. The pieces will be installed throughout the City in May of 2018 as part of Public Art Week. The eleven approved pieces are:

Everything Happens So Much – Ben Sopow Windows to Nanaimo – Jessica Kang Big Bird – Ronald Simmer Owl Under the Oaks – Scott Gillies Bald Eagle – Sheldon Murphy Taking Flight – Angellos Glaros Driftwood Nests – Deryk &Samuel Houston Forest Cloak – Maggie Wouterloot Giant Pacific Octopus – Laura and Michael Timmermans The Jester- Marc Walter Rock Dragon- Heather Wall

“Public art has the unique ability to enhance community and place, celebrating our past, present and future," says Chris Barfoot, Culture and Heritage Coordinator, "The public are constantly commenting on how public art adds visual interest and vibrancy to our public spaces where the art is displayed.”

Since 2010, the City of Nanaimo has been involved in a dynamic and evolving temporary public art program that enhances and animates our City’s parks. Each year, outdoor artwork is installed on a temporary basis for the enjoyment of residents and visitors. City parks and spaces essentially become outdoor art galleries and showcase artworks for a limited period of time.

Public art helps animate our public places and spaces, making them more welcoming, attractive, and contributing to cultural vitality. These pieces will engage and draw residents and visitors to Nanaimo’s parks, making their visit more interesting and enjoyable.

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