Tunnel vision: a collaborative mural masterpiece

A new mural, in the pedestrian underpass near Father Leonard Van Tighem School, is highlighting the creativity of local youth.

The Youth Engagement Pilot Project pairs young artists with professionals. Experienced muralists Lacey Jane and Layla Folkmann, known together as LALA Art, shared their expertise with students from the west Lethbridge school.

The two muralists were chosen from a wide group of talented artists across North America. The final artwork celebrates how kids see the world. It captures their sense of wonder for future generations to enjoy.

“Our students loved being part of every step of the mural project," says Grade 4 teacher Emily Boutland. "Their excitement and enthusiasm, from contributing their artwork to painting in the tunnel, was contagious. The whole school has been buzzing about the transformation. It’s brought a real sense of pride to both our students and the community who use the tunnel each day.”

LALA Art, along with Engagement Specialist Leanne Kembel, visited the school in February. They tasked students with creating drawings inspired by what makes Lethbridge special. The workshop resulted in more than 100 drawings, making for a difficult selection process. Ultimately, a mural took shape that incorporates different elements of the children’s artwork.

On June 9, Grade 4 students joined Kembel, Jane and Folkmann for a hands-on workshop, adding colour to outlined shapes and characters. The next day, students from Grades 6 to 9 added their elements to the mural. The result is a colourful and vibrant experience for anyone walking through the underpass.

Jane and Folkmann drew inspiration from the student drawings. The mural begins with wings leading into the underpass. A large profile of a hawk and prairie crocus are now visible on the west end of the tunnel. A sea turtle and jellyfish have transformed the east end. The background colours from the larger murals continue into the tunnel, connecting the entire vision.

This pilot project serves as an informative experience for future Public Art Program initiatives. It is the first underpass mural installed in Lethbridge. It also serves a purpose, as murals in the City's Public Art collection have proven to mitigate graffiti in public spaces. Public art also helps people feel safer and more connected, turning practical spaces into more welcoming spaces.

Jane and Folkmann will return to Lethbridge later this year for Arts Days. They will present a public artist talk at the Owl Acoustic Lounge on Tuesday, September 23, and speak in the Art NOW program at the University of Lethbridge on Wednesday, September 24.

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