OLD STRATHCONA PUBLIC WASHROOMS

📍 10260 Whyte Ave NW, Edmonton, AB

Thanks to a collaboration between The City of Edmonton and the Old Strathcona Business Association, I had the chance to paint a calming, Mill Creek–inspired mural at the public washrooms on Whyte Ave & Gateway Blvd. The goal: revitalize the space, make it welcoming for everyone—including those dealing with substance use—and add more public art to the area.

The washroom attendants mentioned that folks under the influence of substances often found the environment intense and overwhelming. After years of tagging, it had become pretty chaotic—visually and energetically. We hoped the mural could shift that, even a little, and it’s been great to hear that people are already feeling a difference.
 

Our mural design honours the beauty and vibrancy of the local environment while reflecting the interconnectedness of our community. The artwork blends realistic depictions of local wildlife—bringing the animals and plants that thrive here into the heart of Old Strathcona—with bold, pop-style graphic elements that bring a sense of energy and modernity.

 

A flowing, winding line weaves through the mural, visually connecting each element. This line symbolizes unity, illustrating how our community, like nature, is interconnected and interdependent. 

 

The soothing colours, organic forms, and natural motifs invite viewers to reflect on the restorative qualities of nature—how it nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. By bringing elements of the natural world into these spaces, the mural serves as a visual oasis, reminding us of the harmony and resilience found in both nature and community.