This art series is a part of CF’s Capture the Moment campaign which aims to bring light and colour to the summer season and inspire Canadians to engage with their community spaces.
MASSIVart collaborated with North Strategic to curate the artists, advise on the art direction, and assist them in the creative development and production of their concept in order to provide art direction and design continuity.
Unveiled in June 2022 and exhibited for a period of 3 months, the murals are unique and specifically created for each location, anchored in each respective community, but united throughout. We asked some questions to the diverse artists about their inspirations for the creation of the murals:
Stephanie Boutari is an artist based in Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario. Her architectural background strongly influences her artistic approach, often employing geometric abstraction, visual depth, and bold, vibrant colours to engage the viewer and encourage a sense of play.
Up in the Clouds mural is inspired by the idea of creating a joyful ‘playscape’ and giving viewers the sense of floating in an imaginary world up in the clouds. Boutari incorporated cheerful, happy colours to project joy and interaction for all ages.
Where did the inspiration for this project come from?
I was inspired by the idea of painting a playful three-dimensional space or ‘world’ up in the sky that viewers can imagine themselves in. I wanted it to have a happy and whimsical feel, and I drew inspiration from clouds, giant soap bubbles and toy cubes.
What is optimistic about your piece?
In addition to the happy colours and positive messages on the mirrors, I think the overall concept of play and looking at the clouds conjures up positive feelings. I associate clouds with dreaming of possibilities, and I find that when one is in a state of play it is difficult to also feel stress and anxiety – it is about finding comfort in simple pleasures.
What do you hope viewers will feel and take away from your artwork?
I hope that the artwork transports viewers for a moment of pause into a playful and joyful state of mind – that for a moment they might forget what is troubling them or what tasks they have to do, and just enjoy the present with happy thoughts, and stay reminded of the power of positive thinking.
Emilie Darlington is a Canadian muralist, painter and illustrator specializing in artwork that inspires connections with nature.
I Spy Good Vibes! takes a closer look to find positive words hidden throughout! This eye-catching mural encourages shoppers to pause to enjoy the hand-painted artwork, simultaneously inviting them to take a selfie in one of the mirrors. Slowly finding a collection of French and English descriptors, guests are left with feelings of happiness and peace.
Where did the inspiration for this project come from?
Nature is my greatest inspiration, particularly colourful flowers and big leafy greens! When designing this mural I chose a mix of early spring, mid-season, and late summer flowers that Ottawa residents are likely to see throughout the city and surrounding areas. I often take inspiration from my garden, and from walks or hikes in the Ottawa-Gatineau area. 
What is optimistic about your piece?
While hidden at first glance, I’ve titled this mural “I Spy Good Vibes” for the words of positivity and optimism woven throughout. I’ve also put together an eclectic and joyful palette, incorporating a mix of warm and cool colours. I love making interactive art that encourages feelings of exploration and wonder!
What do you hope viewers will feel and take away from your artwork?
I specialize in artwork that expresses and inspires connections with nature. Most often working with crisp lines, vibrant colours, and a mix of big and small details, I aim to create artwork that is equally impactful when viewed from a distance or when close enough to touch. I hope my work encourages viewers to take a moment to slow down, breathe, explore, and leave feeling peaceful and inspired.
Nicole Larsen is a Vancouver-based artist, illustrator and designer and the creator behind Ripple & Rise. Her art is inspired by nature, connection, and everyday moments in life, and is known for its bold, bright colours and joyful, uplifting energy. Nicole often explores themes of biodiversity, community, and mental well-being and is always looking for ways to create positive change with her work.
The mural is inspired by self-love, growth, and the importance of creating connections within ourselves and our communities. The flowers represent our unique journeys of growth, while the faces further communicate the message of connection and support.
Where did the inspiration for this project come from?
This Mural is inspired by self-love, growth, and the importance of connection within ourselves and our communities. The flowers in the design represent our individual journeys of growth, while the faces help to further communicate the message of connection and support.
What is optimistic about your piece?
The colours are bold and full of positive energy, while the smiling flowers give a sense of comfort and hope.
What do you hope viewers will feel and take away from your artwork?
After interacting with this mural, I hope people leave with a sense of self-appreciation, joy and gratitude.
Hawlii Pichette of Urban Iskwew is a Mushkego Cree (Treaty 9) urban mixed-blood artist and illustrator who currently resides in London, ON. Born and raised in the small community of Cochrane, located in northeastern Ontario, her work is deeply influenced by her culture, reflecting on the beautiful integral interconnections of the natural world.
Wapikwaniwan ~ In Bloom mural was inspired by springtime when flowers bloom without hesitation to share their unique beauty with the world. Sometimes, we need to remind ourselves that we will also bloom if we nurture our spirit and give ourselves the space to be who we truly are.
Where did the inspiration for this mural come from?
Spring really inspired my mural design. In spring, London truly transforms into such a beautiful place. All of the flowers start to bloom and the birds begin to gather and enjoy the lush new growth. I really wanted to create a piece that depicted this beautiful time of year and the connection we have to nature in the city.
What is optimistic about your piece?
The mural design is bright and colourful and will feature several large mirrors and positive messages throughout the design that serve as reflections and reminders to passersby of the importance of taking care of oneself and nurturing your own spirit so that you may bloom.
What do you hope viewers will feel and take away from your artwork?
I want viewers to be inspired and reminded of the importance of taking the time to nurture their own spirit so they can feel hopeful about all of the possibilities that the future holds. Especially after the last couple of years, I think we all could use a positive outlook on what the future holds.
FR
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