New murals bring youth creativity to downtown Maple Ridge

Two new murals created through collaborations between local artists and Maple Ridge youth have been unveiled downtown, while work is underway on a third at Haney Place Mall.

The three pieces are part of the Mural Collective, a City of Maple Ridge-funded public art initiative led by the Downtown Maple Ridge Business Improvement Association (DMRBIA).

The project pairs professional artists with local youth to design and paint large-scale works reflecting Maple Ridge, its natural environment and the perspectives of young people.

“The Mural Collective is a great example of what happens when creativity and community come together,” Mayor Dan Ruimy said. “These murals are bringing new energy and character to our downtown while giving young people the chance to work alongside professional artists and leave their own mark on Maple Ridge.”

The first completed mural is at 223 Street and Lougheed Highway, on the Harris & Leib Insurance and Sure Print Copy building.

Artist Ben Evely worked with students from Samuel Robertson Technical Secondary School on the abstract, patchwork-inspired piece, which incorporates photographs they took around Maple Ridge.

The mural also includes an interactive element, with visitors invited to stand in a “spotlight” incorporated into the artwork for photos and search for a hidden detail in the design.

A second mural has been completed on the Roots Natural Organic Health Foods building along Dewdney Trunk Road between 222 and 224 streets.

Artist Carly Bouwman worked with Samuel Robertson Technical students on a design highlighting endangered and at-risk plants and animals found in the region.

Among the species depicted are the great blue heron, western painted turtle, western bumble bee, white sturgeon, Oregon spotted frog, barn owl and marbled murrelet.

According to the city, the piece is intended to celebrate Maple Ridge’s connection with the natural environment while drawing attention to the region’s biodiversity.

Meanwhile, a third mural is being painted on the northwest and west-facing wall of Haney Place Mall, overlooking the Greg Moore Youth Centre.

Artist Laura Johnson is working with students from UPlan on the project, with youth participating throughout the process from developing the initial concepts and designs through to painting the finished work.

The Haney Place mural will complete the three-part Mural Collective once it is finished.

DMRBIA Executive Director Nicole Archer said the initiative is intended to beautify downtown while creating opportunities for connection.

“This project is about creating spaces for connection and a sense of pride in our downtown,” Archer said. “We’re excited to bring colour and life to the walls of downtown businesses so residents and visitors alike can experience them and engage with the art.”

The city said the project is part of its efforts to create a more welcoming downtown and increase access to arts and culture in public spaces.

It also provides participating youth with mentorship and hands-on experience working with professional artists while giving them an opportunity to contribute to public spaces in their community.

The Mural Collective is funded by the City of Maple Ridge and delivered by the DMRBIA with help from artists, youth, property owners and other community partners.