Brampton: An Artful Future; City unveils inaugural Public Art Strategy and Framework in collaboration with MASSIVart

We are thrilled to announce our collaboration with the City of Brampton in unveiling their first-ever public art strategy, Brampton: An Artful Future.

 
This comprehensive five-year plan aims to establish a vibrant and inclusive approach to public art that reflects Brampton’s diverse community and unique cultural heritage. It signifies a shared commitment to nurturing creativity, supporting local artists, and transforming urban spaces into dynamic, welcoming environments.

Below, you will find the official press release from the City of Brampton, detailing this exciting new initiative and its vision for the future of public art in the city.
 

BRAMPTON, ON (June 6, 2024) – The City of Brampton is launching its first public art strategy and framework. Brampton: An Artful Future, is a five-year plan to establish a cohesive and deliberate approach to developing and administering the City of Brampton’s Public Art Program​. The goal of this strategy and framework is to help shape public spaces to be inviting and inclusive, while honouring the distinctive character of Brampton.​

Public art is recognized by the City of Brampton as a valuable tool in building a vibrant, prosperous and inclusive city. Demonstrated by its public art collection of more than 50 murals, permanent and temporary art installations and civic memorials and monuments, Brampton continues to seek opportunities to showcase talented local artists with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Through various programs, the City plans to expand its public art collection over the next five years and beyond.

Last year, the City collaborated with local artists to deliver 34 new public artworks. Among these was ‘o·tsísteˀ / ishkode,’ a mural by artist Mo Thunder located on the exterior of Brampton Fire Station 207. Additionally, the City provided training and mentorship to 12 artists through these projects, enhancing their skills and opportunities in the art community.

This strategy and framework, developed with input from more than 1,000 Brampton artists, residents and City staff, reflects the diverse values and needs of the community. Contributions from key local arts organizations, such as the Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) and Peel Art Gallery Museum and Archives (PAMA), were also integral to the development of the new plan. Research for Brampton: An Artful Future included exploring public art strategies from across Canada to identify best practices and be incorporated into this new strategy.

About Brampton: An Artful Future

Public art in Brampton conveys stories about the city’s unique identity and diverse communities from the past, present and future. By transforming community spaces, public art invites residents and visitors to experience artistic excellence throughout the city.

Through public art projects such as My Neighbourhood Art Project, Brampton BOXED Art Program, Public Art Along the Paths and Trails Program and Professional Development Programming, this new strategy aims to support the professionalization of Brampton’s creative community through residencies, mentorships, training programs, and other opportunities.

Brampton: An Artful Future includes seven strategic pillars. They include:

1. Diversity and Inclusion: Celebrates Brampton’s diverse cultures and stories.
2. Community Connection: Engages the community in public art processes.
3. Reconciliation and Indigenization: Highlights Indigenous living history, culture and traditions.
4. Accessibility: Ensures everyone can access and enjoy public art.
5. Support Creativity and Innovation: Promotes groundbreaking and inspiring artworks.
6. Collaboration: Encourages cooperation across sectors.
7. Continuous Investment: Commits to ongoing funding for public art.

For more information about the Public Art Strategy and upcoming public art initiatives, visit Brampton.ca/publicart.

Quotes

 
“Public art has the power to transform our community, promoting a sense of belonging among residents and attracting visitors to experience Brampton’s artistic excellence. Our inaugural Brampton: An Artful Future marks a significant milestone in our journey to build Brampton’s vibrant arts and culture sector inspiring and uniting us all. We look forward to watching residents and visitors experience the creativity that lives here.”– Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton
 

“As Chair of Community Services, I have been proud to champion the development of our first public art strategy. Our ongoing investments in public art not only beautify local neighbourhoods but also provide invaluable opportunities for local artists to share their work. In 2023 alone, we added 34 new public artworks across Brampton, reflecting our unwavering commitment to fostering creativity and cultural vibrancy in our community. I am excited to see how these artistic expressions will continue to inspire and unite us all.” – Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor, Wards 1 & 5; Chair, Community Services, City of Brampton
 

​“Public art tells the story of our city’s unique identity and diverse communities. Brampton: An Artful Future is a milestone for our city, being our first-ever public art strategy and framework. This comprehensive framework adds excitement to our public spaces and supports our local artists by providing platforms for artists to share their creations. This new strategy is a guiding document for public art and creativity for the next five years and beyond and we are excited to see this vision come to life.”– Kelly Stahl, Director, Cultural Services, City of Brampton ​
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As one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, Brampton is home to nearly 700,000 people and more than 10​0,000 businesses. People are at the heart of everything we do. We are energized by our diverse communities, we attract investment, and we are embarking​ on a journey to lead technological and environmental innovation. We partner for progress to build a healthy city that is safe, sustainable, and successful. Connect with us on X (f​ormerly Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. Learn more at www.brampton.ca

Media Contact
City of Brampton Media Relations
MediaRelations@Brampton.ca

Image: Oo·tsísteˀ /ishkode, a mural by artist Mo Thunder is located on the exterior of Brampton Fire Station 207 and is a piece in the City’s public art collection. Credit: City of Brampton.