The City is thrilled to announce the newest addition to St. Albert’s public art collection - and its unique location might surprise you! Soaring, a stunning mural project by local artist Kalina Hanson, will soon elevate the vibrant and active spirit of Fowler Athletic Park, located at 63 Sir Winston Churchill Avenue. 

The temporary public artwork, which will be installed on vinyl along the 137-foot retaining wall on the southeast side of the running track, was chosen by a selection committee, made up of local artists, subject matter experts and residents and/or business owners, after a call for artists was issued last spring.

(Illustrator of Soaring, Kalina Hansen)

Artist and Artwork

Kalina Hanson, an illustrator with deep roots in St. Albert, brings her unique vision to life with Soaring. Drawing from her own experiences frequenting Fowler Track during her youth, Hanson aimed to capture the essence of community and diversity within St. Albert. Her mural portrays the dynamic activities and diverse individuals that make Fowler Athletic Park an important public space for residents and visitors.

“Many of the characters on the mural are inspired by people in my life,” says Hanson. “For instance, one of the characters is directly inspired by my best friend, one is a loose depiction of myself as a kid, while others are totally made-up characters that exist only in my imagination!”

(Segment of Soaring, to be installed at Fowler Athletic Park in May 2024)

Soaring is not just a static image; it's a narrative unfolding across the walls of the track facility. Beginning as an abstract, fantastical imagining of students embarking on a run, the mural gradually evolves to reveal recognizable St. Albert landmarks, representing the joyful presence of its residents. Hanson's work celebrates the multifaceted identity of our city, showcasing the unity amidst diversity that defines our community.

(Segment of Soaring, to be installed at Fowler Athletic Park in May 2024)

Temporary vs. Permanent Art

As Soaring will add a dynamic touch to Fowler Athletic Park as a temporary installation for approximately five to seven years, it's worth noting the distinction between temporary and permanent art. Temporary projects, like murals and vinyl installations, offer flexibility and innovation, enriching our spaces for a defined period. In contrast, permanent pieces such as sculptures and integrated artworks, anchor our cultural heritage, embodying the essence of St. Albert for generations to come.

Public Art in St. Albert

St. Albert’s public art collection sets the city apart as a distinct destination for visitors while enhancing the quality of life for residents. This art is accessible to all and is more than just decoration; it's a reflection of our values and aspirations. Across St. Albert, public art fosters community cohesion by creating engaging opportunities for community members to interact, while contributing to our community’s sense of belonging, well-being and wonder. Whether it's permanent sculptures or temporary installations, each piece contributes to our cultural landscape, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike.

Managed by the Culture Branch of the Community Services department, St. Albert's permanent public art collection numbers almost 300 pieces and stands as a testament to our city’s creative spirit and collective identity.

Join Us in Celebration

We invite you to join us in celebrating the addition of Soaring to Fowler Athletic Park - a testament to our community's creativity and unity and a worthy addition to our city’s public art collection.

Stay tuned for updates on the installation progress and opportunities to engage with this exciting new artwork. Together, let's continue to nurture St. Albert's cultural richness and vibrant spirit through the power of public art.

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Related Pages

Art in Public Places ›

Art in Public Places Map ›

Culture Map ›