Colourful new mural at community centre celebrates Oakville’s diversity
Published October 24, 2024 at 12:36 pm
A new, vibrant mural was unveiled recently at Oakville’s Glen Abbey Community Centre.
Created in partnership with STEPS Public Art, a Canadian charity dedicated to community-building through art, the mural celebrates the town’s diversity with a nature-inspired theme.
Designed by local artist Julia YH, the mural incorporates input from community members, showcasing their unique perspectives. The artist was selected through the CreateSpace Public Art Residency, a program that supports emerging Black, Indigenous and racialized artists.
Julia YH is a Chinese-Canadian visual artist whose work blends anthropological insights into dynamic, site-specific designs. Her artwork explores a range of characters, styles and narratives, drawing on mythology, nature and our shared human experience.
More than 20 cans of paint were used to transform this public art space in 23 days, with 60 residents contributing their own artistic touches.
“Public art plays an important role in building community, promoting dialogue and enriching cultural landscape,” said a spokesperson. “As part of the town’s inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility initiatives, the town has once again partnered with STEPS Public Art to support local talent from equity-deserving groups.
“This partnership complements a robust lineup of programs and workshops featuring various artists engaged by the town for Culture Days and Connextions Public Art Project.”
Glen Abbey Community Centre is located at 1415 Third Line.
ARTIST JULIA YH