by Alex MacWilliam
As I reported in the last issue of this newsletter, the Grand Opening of our wonderful Flyover Park was scheduled for September 18. Unfortunately, this event was cancelled on September 13 by the City in response to rising COVID-19 numbers in Calgary and throughout Alberta. While I understand the City’s reasons for cancelling the event, I regret that this project, the result of much effort and collaboration by numerous people and organizations, did not receive a special day. With that in mind, I thought I would share some information about the most recent additions to Flyover Park, namely the murals that now adorn three of the concrete pillars and the abutment supporting the road that carries thousands of people into downtown Calgary each day. One of the murals was featured on the cover of our September issue.
Mural artist Borrris (yes, with three “r’s”) said he wanted his artwork to represent people moving through their city with visual storytelling that highlights local geography, landmarks, and architecture. By using simple geometry and suggesting everyday scenes in a semi-abstract way, he hopes that observers will form their own impressions as they pass by the pillars. Borrris said the sides of each pillar were especially fun to paint since they connect the front and back pictures and were painted freestyle. His idea was to reuse floral elements painted on the abutment as elements that would connect each of the four murals.
Thank you Borrris for your vibrant contribution to our community and thanks to the BRCA, Beltline Urban Murals Project (BUMP), Calgary Municipal Land Corporation, Calgary Parks Foundation, Minto Communities Calgary, Benevity, Riverside School, and the many individuals whose efforts transformed this previously unused space into a welcoming place for residents and visitors. You will see our cover this month features Flyover Park and an individual familiar to many in our neighbourhood. Ali McMillan was instrumental in bringing forward the idea of turning this lost space into a beautiful area and taking if from concept to reality. Thank you, Ali!!! If you haven’t visited Flyover Park yet, I strongly urge you to check it out.
