New public art initiative highlights culture, community and urban beautification
The City of Prince Albert has completed the installation of four new Indigenous-designed transit shelter artworks as part of its ongoing Municipal Cultural Action Plan, adding vibrant cultural elements to key public transit locations throughout the city.
The project, which was finalized this week following the arrival of warmer weather, aims to enhance public spaces while celebrating Indigenous identity, community connection, and local artistic talent. City officials say the installations are intended to create a more welcoming and visually engaging experience for transit users while contributing to broader community wellbeing and urban beautification efforts.
The initiative followed a Call for Indigenous Artists issued in Fall 2025, which generated 21 submissions from 10 artists. After a selection process led through the City’s Public Art Working Group and community partners, four designs were chosen for installation at transit shelters located across Prince Albert.
Four locations receive unique Indigenous-designed artwork
The newly installed artwork reflects the distinct identity and character of each transit shelter location.
River of Reflection at Saskatchewan Polytechnic
At the transit shelter on 15th Street East in front of Saskatchewan Polytechnic, artist Cheyenne Longman created a design titled River of Reflection. The piece is intended to capture themes of reflection, movement, and connection to the natural environment.
Convergence installed near Carlton High School
The shelter located on 6th Avenue East near Carlton High School features Convergence, designed by artist Alex Powalinsky. The artwork was selected to complement the educational and community-focused atmosphere surrounding the school area.
More than a Wish added to west-side shelter
At the intersection of 2nd Avenue and 34th Street West, artist Ailah Carpenter’s design, More than a Wish, now forms part of the city’s public transit infrastructure. The artwork incorporates themes connected to aspiration, resilience, and cultural identity.
Building Relationship installed downtown
A second shelter on 15th Street East, located in front of Royal Bank of Canada, now displays Building Relationship by artist Josh Wapiskisiw. The design focuses on the importance of relationships and shared community experiences.
City says project strengthens public spaces and community pride
City officials say the project demonstrates how public art can contribute to both cultural recognition and community engagement in shared urban spaces.
“These designs reflect Indigenous culture and pride and were so thoughtfully created by the artists for each location,” said Judy MacLeod Campbell, Arts & Culture Manager for the City of Prince Albert. “The art not only enhances the transit user experience, but also contributes to the respect, pride, and beautification of our city through meaningful public art and the importance of relationships and community connection.”
According to the City, the installations were developed through collaboration between the Public Art Working Group, Community Safety & Wellbeing staff within the Community Development Department, local artists, and project contractors.
Municipal leaders have increasingly turned to public art initiatives as a way to strengthen civic identity, improve shared spaces, and foster inclusion. In Prince Albert, the latest transit shelter installations also align with broader efforts to recognize Indigenous culture and perspectives within municipal programming and infrastructure.
Funding support provided through cultural development partnerships
Funding for the project was provided through the City of Prince Albert’s Municipal Cultural Action Plan, with additional financial support from SaskCulture. SaskCulture’s contribution was funded through the Sask Lotteries Trust Fund for Sport, Culture, and Recreation.
The City said the initiative reflects the ongoing role of cultural investment in supporting local artists and creating more inclusive public environments for residents and visitors alike.
With the installations now complete, residents using the city’s transit system will encounter artwork that not only enhances the visual landscape of Prince Albert but also highlights Indigenous storytelling, creativity, and community connection in everyday public spaces.