Rebecca Perry's work is quite the eye catcher. (Facebook/ PADBID)

By Nigel Maxwell

Artistic community

Interactive art takes over downtown Prince Albert

Jun 13, 2024 | 3:19 PM

In the lead up to the city of Prince Albert’s highly anticipated street fair, that will draw thousands of people to the area, the courtyard area at the Gateway Mall has received a bit of a makeover.

Thanks to the Public Art Stimulus Fund Grant, and the support of the Prince Albert Downtown Business Improvement District board of directors, two new wall murals have gone up on the exterior of the Medical Pharmacy and the Gateway Mall. PADBID Executive Director Rhonda Trusty explained the murals represent the first phase of a plan that will incorporate many buildings in the downtown area.

“That’s the dream anyways,” she said, adding a third artist is expected to get his work up in July.

And with respect to why she approached the city for the grant, Trusty explained the goal is to have interactive art.

“You want people to feel like they are part of the project. It just adds a level of fun and brightness to the downtown,” she said.

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Artist Colby Lavigne welcomes you. (Facebook/ PADBID)

Colby Lavigne was among the artists and told paNOW it was a very exciting opportunity.

“I’m thrilled to see more art in the city and honoured to contribute. I think public art has many benefits for the community and I hope Prince Albert takes steps to create more opportunities like this for artists,” she said.

Lavigne also noted that the artists were asked to submit three designs, all with the idea of an interactive photo opportunity.

“This design was inspired by the activities and services in the downtown and the nature found in and around the city,” she said.

The downtown street fair takes place on Saturday, June 15 and runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The special attractions will include live entertainment, street magic, buskers, a Classic Car Show, train ride and also horse and wagon rides.

PADBID Board members from left to right: Meghan Meyer, Sharon Faul, Dawn Kilmer and Stacy Coburn. (Facebook/ PADBID)

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell