The City of Red Deer has made a commitment to public art in your streetscapes, parks and facilities.
AFA Sculptures Be-Bop Artist: Richard Tosczak Location: Northern end of Barrett Park Date: 1995 Media: Welded and painted steel Be-Bop is the least figurative, and most playful, of Tosczak’s welded steel works. The title is inspired by the mixture of swaying and staccato rhythms presented by the forms.
Public Art Policy
The City established a Public Art Policy in 1996 and in 2010 amended its commitment to provide a minimum of 1.0% capital construction cost allocation for public art. Of the 1.0% funding allotment, an amount will be allocated to a Public Art Reserve fund.
Alexander Way
Revitalization of Alexander Way (48 Street) began in 2005 based on recommendations made in the Greater Downtown Action Plan and the Community Culture Master Plan. The vibrant community gathering place features public art, street furniture, brick work and landscaping that connects Red Deer’s parks to the downtown. Check out the annual Alexander Way street party, celebrating culture in Red Deer.
Ghost Collection
Chaq’s Corner Artist: Ken Macklin Location: Taylor Drive & 32 Street Media: Welded steel Inspired by the artist’s visit to Central America and the Yucatan, the artist incorporates the shapes of Mayan temples, and elements that represent jungle growing over the ruins. The title refers to Chaq, the Maya rain god, and to the striking corners to be found on the façade of the Palace of Masks at Kabah in Yucatan.
This internationally renowned Bronze Art collection in downtown Red Deer depicts the history of the community and offers audiences one of the largest life-size bronze sculpture collections in Canada. The popular Ghost sculptures attract thousands of inquisitive travelers every year. The Ghost project was sponsored and managed by the Downtown Business Association until 2007, when The City of Red Deer assumed its stewardship.
Mural projects
The Main Street Mural program is a joint partnership between the Downtown Business Association, the Main Street Project, and The City of Red Deer.
Both Be-Bop and Chaq’s Corner are on long-term, permanent loan to The City of Red Deer from the Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA) collection. The City gratefully acknowledges their support.
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The public art in Red Deer goes beyond specific areas and projects, and it’s growing in scope all
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