Visual arts & new media

Upside Downtown: Concerts + Art line-up for 2025! 

Join us every Thursday in July & August from 5-7pm on Rotary Square at Casa. FREE to attend. From local talent to Juno-nominated artists, Upside Downtown has rock, soul, folk, blues, funk, and country plus everything in between. 

JULY 3*
Veronica Raine
The Decadent Phase

JULY 10*
Makiisma

JULY 17
Joce Reyome

JULY 24
Joshua Beebe & The Forest Orchestra
Willy Big Bull & Wintercount

JULY 31
John Wort-Hannam

AUGUST 7
Nuela Charles

AUGUST 14
Bailey Kate Band

AUGUST 21
Richard Inman & The Western Canadian All-Stars

AUGUST 28 - POP UP, GET DOWN - Dance until 10 pm
Shaela Miller + Guests
ADEQUATE!
Hippodrome

Our final concert on August 28 will be the inaugural POP UP, GET DOWN – A summer dance party with three bands, an art market, and we’re closing 8 Street South! 

Throughout the summer, drop by The Gallery at Casa for Re:Turning the Stories, a community exhibition with over 40 local artists reflecting on their relationship to the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden and Nikkei cultural stories in southern Alberta. 

Follow the @AACLETH and @CASALETHBRIDGE on Facebook and Instagram to see which food trucks will be joining us each week. 

*PS - We will be joined for a pre-show on July 3 & July 10 at 4:45 pm with Chinook High School Battle of the Bands Winners. Supporting emerging talent in our community! 

Thank you to our sponsors for allowing us to provide FREE concerts to the community: FACTOR, Spectrum Ale Co., Westco Construction, Precon, Andrew Hilton, Anova Law Group, CIR Realty, Nectar Tattoo, Safeway, So Normal Print Co., Tourism Lethbridge, and Warwick Printing.

The Upside Downtown Concert Series is programmed by the Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge. For more information about this series and the AAC, visit artslethbridge.org/ 

Please join us for the launch of Terrie Shaw’s book on July 13th from 2-3:30 pm. Guests can expect a reading from Terrie Shaw, an opportunity to purchase the book, and light refreshments. 

Terrie Shaw is an Edmonton based artist whose new book, Garden Journey: Stories, Sketches, and Recipes, offers an intimate look at her creative process. Through delicate watercolour sketches, expressive pen-and-ink drawings, and heartfelt journal entries, Terrie’s book captures the ever-changing beauty of the seasons and the quiet magic they bring. Shaw then transforms her homegrown bounty into an array of delicious, garden-inspired recipes, each infused with personal stories and cherished memories. 

We look forward to seeing you there!

When: July 13, 2-3:30pm
Where: Audreys Books, 10702 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, AB

audreys.ca/events 

City of Red Deer Public Art Opportunity

Canadian Pacific Rail Pedestrian Bridge Rehabilitation Public Art Project – 2025/2026

Call for Artists 

Canadian artists or artist teams are invited to submit expressions of interest for a public art opportunity for stage 1 of the CPR Pedestrian Bridge Rehabilitation Project in the city of Red Deer, AB. 

Budget: $170,000 (including GST)

Deadline for applications: July 31, 2025, 4:00pm

Project Background

The CPR Pedestrian Bridge, built in 1908 by Canadian Pacific Railway, was used for trains until 1990 when the rail line was relocated. Although initially slated for demolition, the bridge was saved by local residents and converted into an active transportation structure. Recognizing its historical significance, Red Deer City Council designated the bridge a Municipal Historic Resource in 1991. Now over 100 years old, the bridge is undergoing full rehabilitation to restore its original grandeur, meet modern standards, and create an inviting space for the community. The project will also include landscaping and the creation of a plaza on the north side of the river, with two identified sites for public art.

Location

The public art sites are situated on the north side of the Red Deer River, within the newly created plaza. This location connects the Riverside Meadows neighbourhood to the city's renowned trail system, while the CPR Pedestrian Bridge links the north side to downtown Red Deer. There are two potential public art sites located on the outer edges of a trail roundabout: a primary site and a secondary site. In Stage 2, artists and artist teams can choose to submit a design for the primary site only or a design that engages both sites, creating a cohesive relationship between them.

The plaza and public art sites are situated on the ancestral lands of Treaty 6, within the traditional territories of the Métis, Cree, and Saulteaux peoples. Central Alberta also encompasses parts of Treaty 7, the traditional territory of the Blackfoot Confederacy, Tsuut’ina Nation, and Stoney Nakoda Nations. This area has been a place of gathering, travel, and sustenance for Indigenous communities since time immemorial. The arrival of settlers and the imposition of colonial systems—through treaties, land dispossession, and the establishment of industry—profoundly disrupted these relationships. By the early 20th century, the site became home to the Bawtinheimer Mill and later the Great West Lumber Company (1900–1916), contributing to the industrial and residential development of North Red Deer.

Today, projects like the CPR Pedestrian Bridge offer an opportunity to reflect on these layered histories while imagining more inclusive futures. The bridge project aligns with key objectives from the Riverside Meadows Neighbourhood Redevelopment Plan, including beautifying the public realm, fostering a strong community identity, and preserving the area’s historical and cultural features. Riverside Meadows is a vibrant, and inclusive community, blending residential, commercial, and recreational spaces while respecting its history and natural environment. The neighbourhood emphasizes sustainable development, green spaces, and accessible transportation, particularly through walking and biking, and encourages active community involvement in maintaining its unique identity.

Deliverables
Canadian-based artists (including artist teams) are invited to submit their portfolios and statement of interest to this stage 1 of a two-stage competition for the public art project competition for the CPR Pedestrian Bridge Rehabilitation Project. 

The artwork(s) will serve as a welcoming beacon for cyclists and pedestrians, marking the entrance into north Red Deer. Situated along a pedestrian corridor, the piece will invite passersby to pause, gather, and reflect. The project encourages themes that align with the values of the Riverside Meadows neighbourhood, such as environmental stewardship, community connection, and the histories and stories of the area. This will be a site-specific sculptural artwork that responds to the location’s use, history, and natural environment. Designs that incorporate interactive elements are encouraged.

Required Submission Materials

Artists/artist teams are invited to submit their portfolios (up to 10 past projects) and shall include:

• Professional Experience - CV (lead artist)
  • Portfolio of relevant past projects
  • Letter of Interest outlining possible approach to this project
  • Artist Statement and philosophy towards Public Art

Selection Process

Submissions will be screened for eligibility based on the requirements listed above. Submissions that do not meet eligibility criteria will not be considered. Eligible submissions will be reviewed by the Public Art Commission and 3 to 5 finalists will be chosen to move onto the RFP stage. Those moving to the RFP stage will receive an honorarium of $2500.00 for the development of the final design concept. All applicants will be notified regardless. 

Deadline and Submission Details

Proposals will be accepted until Friday, July 31, 2025, 4 pm MT. The detailed RFQL can be found here reddeer.bidsandtenders.ca

Respondents interested in this opportunity are invited to create a free Bidding System Vendor account at reddeer.bidsandtenders.ca and click on the "Create Account" button. To register as a Plan Taker, click on the “Register for this Bid” button.

Responses that do not fully meet the criteria above may not be considered. It is the respondent’s responsibility to request clarification of any item that is unclear or uncertain within the context of the RFQ package by using the “Submit a Question” button through the Bidding System.

Equity Statement 

In the spirit of fostering inclusivity and celebrating diverse voices, this public art project welcomes artists of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to participate. We are committed to ensuring that artists from historically underrepresented communities, including but not limited to Indigenous, Black, racialized, 2SLGBTQ+, disabled, and economically marginalized groups, have equitable opportunities to contribute to the cultural fabric of Central Alberta. We encourage submissions that reflect the rich diversity of our community, promote social justice, and inspire collective understanding.

The City of Lethbridge Public Art Program is seeking an artist or artist team to paint a series of asphalt murals on park pathways, with the goal of promoting awareness, connection and movement of people between various amenities in and around Henderson Park. This pilot project also involves elements of skill sharing and community participation and will help inform future asphalt art projects in our community.

Artists are asked to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) outlining their artistic background and intended approach to the project. Design renderings are not required at this phase. The details of the skill-sharing and community engagement components will be developed and scheduled in collaboration with the project team (see Scope of Work below).

Applicants should carefully read all sections of this call and ensure their application fulfills all the requirements. Questions are welcome and may be directed to KT Wilde at publicart@artslethbridge.org.

Background

Henderson Park is one of Lethbridge’s premier parks featuring a 24-hectare lake, mature trees, picturesque parkland & gardens, picnic shelters, playgrounds and over 7 km of pathways to explore. Centrally located on the south side of the city, Henderson Park contains (or is adjacent to) an abundance of highly valued community amenities. These include Henderson Outdoor Pool, Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, Lethbridge Tennis Club, Henderson Lake Golf Course, Wade Galloway Skate Park, Spitz Stadium and the newly redeveloped Lethbridge & District Exhibition. A hub for community celebration, the park itself is a year-round destination for outdoor recreation and special events that promote lively festivals, active socialization and casual enjoyment of urban nature.

For more details on the various amenities located in and around Henderson Park, please see: www.lethbridge.ca/parks-leisure-recreation/parks-and-playgrounds/south-parks-and-playgrounds/henderson-lake-park/   and  getinvolvedlethbridge.ca/henderson-park-strategic-plan.

Eligibility

This competition is open to artists and artist teams across Canada at all levels of their artistic practice. Applicants must be available for all activities as outlined above.

Scope of work

The selected artist (or artist team) will design and paint a series of 5 – 8 temporary works of public art. The sites eligible for painting will not include roads or designated sidewalks but will focus on paved paths and gathering areas used primarily by pedestrians and cyclists. Most sites are located within Henderson Park, with additional designated adjacent areas outside the Agri-Food Hub and Trade Centre building.

The selected applicant will also be required to deliver two additional components: 1) a professional development opportunity for other artists looking to expand their skillset to include asphalt mural painting and 2) offer a community engagement activity as part of the project, such as participating in a volunteer paint day. Project staff will work with the artist to develop these components, but applicants are asked to highlight their relevant skills and any approaches they may envision, in their letter of interest.

Installation sites

• Pathway paintings will be installed at between 5 and 8 sites along paved surfaces located within eligible zones which include the Henderson Park Pathways (Appendix A) and designated areas on the north/east side of Parkside Drive S connecting Lethbridge and District Exhibition with Henderson Park (Appendix B).
• No officially designated sidewalks or roads are included in the scope of this call. Proposals to paint crosswalks, roadways, or intersections will not be considered.

While painting will only occur within the eligible areas outlined, the artwork can and should visually reference the amenities surrounding the park as listed above, and may include other highlights such as playgrounds, boat launch, picnic and rest areas, etc.

Budget 

The project budget is $10,000 plus GST, inclusive of artist fees and other project expenses for which the selected artist or artist team will be responsible, such as supplies, materials and incidentals.  

The selected applicant will receive an artist fee of $750 plus GST upon submission of the Project Proposal (see Artist Deliverables, above). Following acceptance of the project plan and designs, an additional fee of $9250 plus GST will be paid in installments according to deliverables.   

An additional travel budget may be negotiated if necessary, to a maximum of $3000. 

Timeline

Call opens: Tuesday, June 10, 2025
Info Session:  Wednesday, June 25, 2025 – details and link will be posted online
EOI Submission Deadline: Monday, July 21, 2025 at 11:59 pm local time
Notification: Thursday, July 31, 2025
Site visit: Early August 2025
Project Proposal due: August 31, 2025

Phase 1

• Installations: September 2025 (contingency dates: October 2025)
• Project updates submitted: September/October

Phase 2

• Planning: Fall 2025 / Winter 2026
• Installations and engagement events: Spring 2026

Final report submitted: within one month following completion

Download the full PDF for Application and Submission Requirements

Submission deadline: Monday, July 21, 2025 at 11:59 pm local time

En Salle // Indoor Landscape
Svea Ferguson

Leighton Art Centre
June 21–August 24, 2025

282027 144 Street West
Foothills, AB T1S 0Y4

www.leightoncentre.org
www.sveaferguson.com

Svea Ferguson’s current exhibition En Salle // Indoor Landscape indulges in falsified replications of nature, utilizing primarily ready-made, raw, and minimally altered materials. While the French term en plein air refers to painting outdoors within the landscape, en salle means “indoors” or “in the room,” speaking to Ferguson’s interest in interior spaces, faux surfaces, and the mimicry of biological forms. Playing with this reversal of art historical terminology, the works in the show are ostensibly ex situ: made and existing outside their natural locations of reference. These objects and materials are largely devoid of any true connection to the land, and aptly exhibit the strange futility of capitalist desires to manufacture nature.

The sculptural centerpiece of the exhibition, above below beyond, was created for an exhibition at the Southern Alberta Art Gallery in 2020, which remained largely unviewable due to COVID-19 restrictions. Here the work is reconsidered and expanded in the context of the Leighton Art Centre with the companion work paper sky. This context considers the founders Barbara and A.C. Leighton, whose work was centered on depictions of the land and sky and the practice of plein air painting, a tradition that the Centre carries on in its current programming and collection. Ferguson has created her own version of a landscape through sourcing ready-made objects with pre-packaged nature veneers; carpet made to look like a painterly field of flowers, paper printed to imitate a blue, cloud-filled sky. The materials have been cut to physically open them into net-like forms, allowing natural light from the windows to pass through. Following the logic of the material is key; Ferguson cuts away parts of the floral carpet pattern, following the lines of the pattern itself. This allows the once-solid carpet to open itself to the light, which in turn casts shadows as replacements for the shapes that have been removed. In paper sky, that same carpet pattern is projected onto and cut out of the material as a means of connection between these two spatially separate entities (land and sky).

En Salle // Indoor Landscape acknowledges and complicates our reverence for nature, joining the worlds of “real” and “fake”. As natural light passes over and through the objects, their static surface is activated. Like painting en plein air, the work captures qualities of light and atmosphere, but here there is a disconnect when determining a sense of place; the result is entirely manufactured.

Svea Ferguson (she/her) is a sculptor from Mohkínstsis/Calgary. Her work was commissioned for the 2017 Alberta Biennial of Contemporary Art and has been shown across North America and abroad. Notable exhibitions include the Southern Alberta Art Gallery, Glenbow Museum, Esker Foundation, Division Gallery Toronto, Holland Project NV and Art Athina in Athens, Greece. She received the BMO 1st Art Prize for Alberta in 2015. Her work is included in numerous private collections and the permanent collections of the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity and TD Canada Trust.