The streets of Squamish will soon come to life with bright, emblematic depictions of familiar fauna thanks to the collaborative efforts of a local artist, Squamish Arts, and the District of Squamish.
A call for Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw and Squamish-based artists was announced in February 2022 seeking submissions to the Street Banner Project, and requesting proposals of original designs influenced by the uniqueness of Squamish and the surrounding community. The submission by Squamish artist Ciarra Saylor was selected for the project with her Joyful Spirit Animal Banners series.
“I have a great love for nature, animals and the spirit realm, and a great respect for nature and community,” says artist Ciarra Saylor. “My style is steeped in realism and led by my intuition. Each animal and colourway pairing was chosen specifically to represent an aspect of the beautiful town of Squamish.”
The Street Banner Project is a community initiative to provide and develop a visually rich environment that promotes livability and artistic vitality.
“Street banners create a sense of community pride and give us the opportunity to highlight the extensive local art scene that thrives here,“ says Squamish Arts Executive Director Katherine Kunze. “Squamish is a place unlike any other and Ciarra has captured that through these playful and uniquely Squamish designs. With her original drawings and the thoughtful choice of colours, these banners celebrate some of the special Squamish inhabitants that make this such an exceptional place to live.”
The banners are slated for installation in the spring on existing light poles in commercial areas in Downtown Squamish, Garibaldi Estates and at Brennan Park Recreation Centre.
