Clay creations foster community pride

January 10, 2008

(Red Deer, Alberta) – Two new clay murals were unveiled at the Collicutt Centre yesterday thanks to a unique partnership between The City of Red Deer, two local artists and more than 180 art students from Hunting Hills and Notre Dame High School.

“The Collicutt Centre is a common socializing area for students from our two neighbouring high schools. Installing art created by these students helps us expand our public art collection while instilling community pride and ownership,” said Barb McKee, Collicutt Centre Supervisor.

Creation of the murals came following a grant received from the Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA) and matched funding from The City of Red Deer. Planning for the project and work on the grant submission began in early Spring 2007, and the murals are now permanent fixtures at the Collicutt Centre.

“This innovative project aligns with our commitment to community development. Students from both schools stepped up to experience art in a new way and create something that will benefit the whole community,” said McKee.

The murals, which are named ‘Fuel’ and ‘Soul’, share an inspirational leisure theme.

Development of the artwork was led by professional artists Dawn Detarando and Brian McArthur of Voyageur Art and Tile. Detarando and McArthur helped students create personalized tiles with a common goal; the end result is two vibrantly glazed tile projects that reflect the personal experiences of each artist.

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For more information, please contact:

Janice Jones
Collicutt Centre Customer Service/Marketing Specialist
The City of Red Deer
(403) 358-7524