Two new downtown mural projects received unanimous approval at Kamloops City Council this week, with councillors and staff highlighting the proposals as part of a broader push to animate public spaces and strengthen the city’s cultural identity.

The approvals came during a council meeting that also included housing and procedural items, but attention quickly turned to two large-scale public art installations planned for downtown locations later this spring.

City Events Manager Dusan Magdolen presented the mural applications on behalf of Kamloops Square Management and Kelson Group, describing both projects as strong examples of community-driven placemaking supported under the city’s Graffiti Bylaw and cultural strategy.

Kamloops Square mural to reflect local identity

The first project will see a large east-facing wall at Kamloops Square at 275 Seymour Street transformed into a 2,100-square-foot mural by artist Roanna Farmer, whose work is known for bold colour palettes and character-driven storytelling.

The mural is intended to reflect the landscapes, people, and cultural identity of Kamloops, including visual references to the nearby farmers’ market and surrounding downtown landmarks such as the museum and St. Andrew’s on the Square.

Magdolen told council the project meets all bylaw requirements and will be installed over a three-week period beginning later this month.

“It’s a very strong application package,” he said, adding that the Arts and Culture Engagement Group was “unanimously in favour” and praised the proposal’s clarity and artistic intent.

The property owner will oversee installation, maintenance, and anti-graffiti protection. Staff noted the mural will use high-grade exterior paints and a protective sealant designed to extend its lifespan.

Kelson Group mural to honour Red Bridge

Council also approved a second mural at the Galloway-Ellis Building at 220 4th Avenue, where property owner Kelson Group will fund and maintain a new artwork titled Red Bridge Raven.

The mural will be created by Kamloops artist Vaughn Warren in collaboration with Vancouver Island artist Paul Archer, and is designed to commemorate the historic Red Bridge through a vibrant, emotionally driven visual narrative.

Magdolen noted the project includes durability measures such as UV-resistant coatings and a protective metal flashing to manage water runoff.

“The Arts and Culture Engagement Group was unanimously in favour again,” he said. “They felt the Red Bridge is important to the community and that this proposal is thoughtful and contributes to what people are calling ‘mural alley.’”

The Heritage Engagement Group also endorsed the project, noting the artwork’s alley location ensures it does not impact the historic features of the building.

Council: murals part of broader downtown vision

Deputy Mayor Neustaeter and councillors supported the recommendations without opposition, ultimately passing both approvals unanimously.

Councilor Sorai highlighted the broader value of public art in downtown revitalization, drawing comparisons to similar initiatives he recently observed elsewhere.

“I hope we can see more of these applications,” Sorai said. “If you look up and down these alleys, it’s called the Art Alleries… it was three blocks of beautiful art of all different types. It was inspirational.”

He added that walking through the space reinforced his view that Kamloops should continue expanding its mural program.

“I hope this ignites more thinking and creative thinking of more artists and more business people willing to take this on,” he said. “This is something that’s really exciting for Kamloops… it just makes our downtown even more vibrant.”

Magdolen responded simply: “Music to my ears.”

Deputy Mayor Katie Neustaeter also pointed to the city’s growing collection of public art, noting existing mural programs and tourism initiatives.

“We have a beautiful portfolio already of murals around the city,” she said, highlighting guided art walks supported by Tourism Kamloops. She also congratulated the recently completed mural at the Thompson Inn, calling it “just gorgeous.” (pictured)

Installation expected in May

Both mural projects are expected to proceed through permitting and preparation immediately, with installation scheduled for May 2026.

City staff say the projects are part of an ongoing effort to activate underused urban spaces, support local artists, and strengthen downtown Kamloops as a cultural destination.