A security measure at a downtown business is being turned into a local artist’s canvas.
The next step is being taken in the City of Lethbridge’s public art pilot project as vinyl wraps are installed on two sets of roll shutters at a business along 4th Street. The artwork is being done by local artist Sheila Shaw, who is said to have initially explored the idea of taking part in the Community Murals initiative, which added eight new murals around Lethbridge in 2024. Shaw says she, in the end, did not feel like she was ready to work on a mural as the process implied. However, according to the local artist, this project ended up being the best of both worlds, giving her the chance to experiment with a mural-scale design and still work on the piece in the studio.
Shaw explains that her work is inspired by her late mother.
“She made patchwork quilts. As a kid, I remember seeing all these blocks of cut-up fabric in all these different colours. So, my working with colourful squares is a way to honour her,” Shaw says.
Shaw’s piece incorporates the historical layout of the community, with references to the Oldman River and coulees.
A partner with Fee Simple Law, Matthew McHugh, says the project shows what can happen when the community comes together.
“The City, Allied Arts Council, the Business Revitalization Zone, local artists and businesses are all working hand in hand to turn something negative into something inspiring,” McHugh states. “The mural’s abstract expression of historic maps of our city makes it a unique celebration of our community’s story. We’re proud to have our business be the first location for this pilot project.”
According to the city, the pilot project is a way to bring a new light to the security measure, which is becoming more commonly used around the city. According to officials, turning the shutters into an art piece will help prevent them from being vandalized by graffiti, helping them “last longer and make our streets feel safer and more inviting.”
The artwork is scheduled to be installed at the Free Simple Law office on September 19th, dependent on the weather, and should be in place for three to five years. If the pilot is successful, it could be expanded to more locations.
