A Guide to Public Art in Calgary A Guide to Public Art in Calgary | Sculptures and Installations

Calgary isn’t just a hub for the oil and energy sectors or a gateway to the Rocky Mountains–it's also a vibrant canvas for public art! 

As you power walk through the bustling streets or stroll along the calm river pathways, you'll encounter an array of sculptures, murals, and installations that add a splash of creativity and cultural depth to the urban landscape.

Discover the allure of public art in Calgary, featuring striking sculptures and murals that capture the essence of the city's spirit.

USE OUR QUICK NAVIGATION GUIDE BELOW TO JUMP TO ANY POINT OF OUR GUIDE ON CALGARY'S PUBLIC ART:

• Why Public Art Matters in Urban Spaces
• The Blue Ring: A Symbol of Controversy and Conversation
• Upcoming Attractions: What's New in Calgary's Public Art
• A Tour of Calgary's Most Beloved Sculptures
• How Public Art Reflects and Shapes Calgary's Identity
• Art as a Reflection of Calgary's History and Values
• Shaping Perceptions and Experiences
• Public Art and Cultural Identity
• Engaging and Developing the Community
• Economic Impact of Public Art
• The Future of Public Art in Calgary

Why Public Art Matters in Urban Spaces

Public art in Calgary isn't simply about beautifying the city, it's a vital ingredient in the recipe that makes Calgary's urban fabric so unique and engaging. Public art provides a visual narrative of the city's history, values, and aspirations, offering a chance to connect with the culture on a deeper level.

Calgary's public art is a dialogue between the city's past and present, its natural beauty, and its urban development. These spectacles are a conversation starter, a landmark, and a beacon of cultural pride.

Imagine a giant, glowing blue ring towering against rolling hills… its bound to spark curiosity and conversation. These pieces represent the bold, sometimes controversial choices the city makes in its pursuit of artistic expression and urban identity.

In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through Calgary's public art landscape.

The Blue Ring: A Symbol of Controversy and Conversation

When it comes to public art in Calgary, few pieces have sparked as much debate as 'Travelling Light', commonly known as The Blue Ring. This monumental structure, designed by the Berlin-based artist collective Inges Idee, stands as a bold emblem of modern art's ability to stir public opinion and engage communities in dialogue about the role of art in public spaces.

Origins and Design of The Blue Ring

Completed in 2013, this 17-metre-tall sculpture was part of a city initiative to integrate art into everyday life. The Blue Ring, with its simple yet striking design, was meant to serve as a gateway to the city, symbolizing movement and progress. Its circular form represents the wheel, a fundamental element in the narrative of transportation and development​​.

Public Reception (A Mixed Bag)

The reception of The Blue Ring was a mix of admiration and criticism. With a budget of $471,000, it faced scrutiny over its cost and artistic merit. However, this conversation itself highlights an essential aspect of public art – its ability to engage citizens in a discourse about urban aesthetics, cultural value, and fiscal responsibility​​​​.

The Blue Ring's Impact on Calgary's Art Scene

Despite the mixed reactions, The Blue Ring has undeniably played a significant role in shaping Calgary's public art policy. It has become a landmark, often used as a reference point in discussions about future public art projects. The sculpture's presence has encouraged a broader conversation about what public art should represent and how it should be funded and selected.

The Blue Ring exemplifies the dynamic nature of public art – it's not just about creating beauty but also about sparking conversations, challenging perceptions, and engaging the public in a meaningful way. 

As we continue to look at Calgary's public art landscape, the story of The Blue Ring serves as a reminder of the power of art to provoke thought and inspire change.

Upcoming Attractions: What's New in Calgary's Public Art

Calgary's public art scene is always evolving. New sculptures and installations emerge to enrich the city's cultural tapestry. These upcoming artworks not only add aesthetic value but also reflect Calgary's commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive artistic community.

New Additions to the Cityscape

Calgary's public art scene is set for a significant addition with a new sculpture at the expanded BMO Centre. This $2.25-million steel sculpture, titled ‘Spirit of Water’ and created by British artist Gerry Judah, promises to be a spectacular focal point in the city. 

Weighing 50,800 kilograms and standing 21 meters high, the abstract sculpture will be a prominent feature of the BMO Centre's outdoor plaza, which is set to be twice the size of Calgary's Olympic Plaza.

Significance of Spirit of Water

The ‘Spirit of Water’ sculpture is a monumental project, reflecting Calgary's commitment to integrating art with urban development. It's set to be a landmark piece that symbolizes the city's connection to its natural environment and cultural heritage. 

The installation of this artwork, scheduled to coincide with the BMO Centre's opening for the Stampede in 2024, is the result of a rigorous selection process from over 200 artist proposals.

Enhancing Urban Spaces and Community Engagement

This new addition is a testament to the city's dedication to beautifying its public spaces and fostering a vibrant cultural scene. It’s another chance to embrace of public art as a tool for community engagement. 

Such significant installations not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the city but also serve as landmarks and gathering spaces.

A Tour of Calgary's Most Beloved Sculptures

Calgary is home to a diverse range of public art pieces that have become landmarks in their own right. Here's a list of some of the most notable and beloved sculptures that embody the spirit and creativity of the city.

Brotherhood of Mankind by Mario Armengol

Installed in 1968, this group of ten towering figures on the lawn of the Calgary Board of Education Building symbolizes unity and diversity. The faceless, raceless figures, originally part of Expo '67, evoke various narratives of human interaction and connection.

The Conversation by William McElcheran

Located in the heart of the city, this sculpture features two businessmen and is often dressed up by locals with scarves or mittens, adding a whimsical touch to the pace of corporate life.

Wonderland by Jaume Plensa

Standing in front of The Bow building, this impressive 12-meter steel mesh sculpture in the shape of a girl's head invites visitors to walk through it, offering a unique perspective and is a favourite for photography enthusiasts.

Chinook Arc by Joe O’Connell

An interactive piece in Barb Scott Park, this sculpture projects movements and colours onto its surface, creating a dynamic and ever-changing visual experience for viewers.

Wishing Well by Po Shu Wang and Louise Bertelsen

On display outside Bridge at Bridgeland, this polished mirror split sphere is both visually striking and interactive. It allows visitors to send text message wishes, which are then converted into a unique light and sound symphony. This innovative artwork combines technology and artistic expression.

Self Made Woman by Paul Slipper

Sited near SAIT, this sculpture depicts a woman chiseling herself out of marble, symbolizing self-creation and empowerment.

TransitStory by Jill Anholt

This installation at the Calgary City Hall LRT station represents the flow of people and time, depicting figures waiting for the train, and captures the essence of Calgary's public transit history.

Fourth Street SW Underpass Enhancement

This public art project transforms the underpass into an engaging space with LED lights that respond to pedestrian movement, creating an interactive experience of colour and light.

Corridor of Connection Mural

This mural, created by Michelle Hoogveld, is located in the downtown underpass on 1st Street S.W. It's a part of the city's initiative to beautify and revitalize urban spaces, featuring a series of colourful images of flowing water, lips, rainbow checkers, nature, animals and more.

Bloom by Michel de Broin

A dynamic sculpture composed of streetlights that illuminate beautifully at night, creating a blossoming effect and gently overseeing the island.

Device to Root Out Evil by Dennis Oppenheim

A thought-provoking inverted church installation, challenging traditional perspectives and inviting contemplation. As one of the most recognised sculptures in the world, it’s back in Calgary on a five year loan.

TRIO by Christian Moeller

A prominent feature at the Central Library's east and west outdoor plazas in Calgary. These vibrant and playful sculptures, measuring nine to ten meters tall, move like pendulums, creating an engaging visual choreography.

PROMENADE BY JULIAN OPIE

A permanent public installation showcasing LED-animated figures that continuously stroll through miniature street scenes. This computerized pop art reflects the perpetual motion of life in East Village and the constant flow of the nearby Bow River.

How Public Art Reflects and Shapes Calgary's Identity

Each piece of public art in Calgary serves as a mirror, reflecting the city's evolving identity and shaping its cultural narrative.

Art as a Reflection of Calgary's History and Values

Public art in Calgary often pays homage to its rich history and diverse culture. From sculptures that echo the city's indigenous roots to installations that celebrate its urban progress. They offer a tangible connection to the city's heritage and values, fostering a sense of belonging and community pride.

Shaping Perceptions and Experiences

The public art in Calgary also plays a crucial role in shaping how people perceive and experience the city. Artworks like Wonderland and The Blue Ring have become landmarks, not just in their physical presence but in their ability to evoke emotions and provoke thought. 

These pieces encourage people to see the city from different perspectives, whether they're in awe at the intricate design of a sculpture or engaging in lively debates about a controversial piece.

Public Art and Cultural Identity

Calgary's public art is a testament to the city's commitment to creating an inclusive and vibrant urban environment. It showcases a desire to blend art, community, and urban development harmoniously. 

The presence of dynamic and diverse artworks throughout the city reflects the city's commitment to inclusivity and cultural representation. Artworks celebrate the diversity of the community, providing opportunities for various cultural expressions to be showcased and appreciated.

Engaging and Developing the Community

Public art in Calgary often serves as a communal space, bringing people together and fostering social interactions.

These installations help create spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring and enjoyable. They’re strategically placed to enhance public spaces, making them more inviting and engaging for residents and visitors.

Through these artworks, Calgary's public spaces transform into hubs of social and cultural activity. This approach to urban development recognizes the importance of creating spaces that foster social interaction and community connection.

Economic Impact of Public Art

Public art also has a tangible economic impact. It can increase property values, attract tourists, and stimulate local businesses. In Calgary, art pieces like Wonderland and The Blue Ring serve as tourist attractions, drawing people to specific areas of the city. 

This influx of visitors supports local businesses, from retail to hospitality, contributing to the overall economic health of the community.

These installations can even transform underutilized or neglected areas into vibrant community spaces. In Calgary, public art is often part of larger urban renewal projects, contributing to the revitalization of neighbourhoods and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

The Future of Public Art in Calgary

The future of public art in Calgary is marked by innovation and a deepened commitment to cultural expression. 

As the city grows, so will its public art landscape, promising new forms of artistic innovation and enhancing Calgary's global cultural reputation. 

Public art is a vital part of the city's identity, offering residents and visitors a chance to connect with the community and its stories. This evolving tapestry of art invites everyone to engage, explore, and appreciate the creative spirit of Calgary.