Edmonton Celebrates Public Art Day Following National Award Win

A vibrant celebration marked the proclamation of Public Art Day in Edmonton on October 11, following a significant accolade for local artists. The event recognized Erin Pankratz and Christian Pérès Gibaut, whose public art installations, A Mischief of Could Be(s), received the prestigious Canada’s Creative City Network Legacy Award.

Despite the dreary weather on Saturday, the festivities unfolded at the Pyramid of Seasons in Churchill Square. The event featured live music and roving performances, highlighting the artistic spirit of the city. Mayor Amarjeet Sohi attended the celebration and declared this day likely to be his last official proclamation as mayor.

In his remarks, Sohi emphasized the importance of public art in enhancing the vibrancy of the city. “It doesn’t matter which part of the city you live in, to experience and enjoy public art that adds to our vibrancy makes our city such a phenomenal place to live,” he stated. The proclamation coincided with the Edmonton Arts Council’s (EAC) milestone of 30 years and the unveiling of their 300th piece of public art.

EAC’s executive director, Renée Williams, expressed her enthusiasm about the recognition. “The public art collection, I always like to say, is a visual manifestation of the personality of our city, and we’re thrilled to have such unique pieces in the collection,” she noted. Williams highlighted Edmonton’s reputation as a vibrant arts city, pointing to its year-round festivals and theatre scene. “We’re absolutely on the map,” she affirmed.

The installations by Red Knot Studio were designed to capture the essence of childhood imagination and creativity. They are prominently displayed in both Churchill Square and the nearby Centennial Plaza, inviting residents and visitors alike to engage with the artwork.

As Edmonton embraces its artistic achievements, the celebration of Public Art Day serves not only as a recognition of local talent but also as a reminder of the essential role that art plays in community engagement and cultural expression.