Giant art installations and outdoor performances help defrost Edmonton

Apr 5 2021, 10:37 pm

As recommended by health officials, if you choose to participate in events outside of your home, please adhere to COVID-19 health and safety measures, including proper physical distancing, mask-wearing, and frequent handwashing. If you are sick, please stay home.

Downtown Spark hopes to help defrost Edmonton this spring and bring visitors to the downtown core with a series of events and exhibits scattered throughout the city centre.

“Experience the magic of the city’s core with physically distant experiences that everyone can enjoy safely,” invites Explore Edmonton‘s website.

The outdoor celebration of the change in season is composed of immersive cultural exhibits, extended outdoor patios, al fresco performances, and giant art installations.

The first Downtown Spark exhibit, running now until April 10, is called “Fantastic Planet,” and it features six massive “humanoids” that are illuminated after dark, created by artist Amanda Parer.

“It is our wish that these works inspire a sense of awe and wonder by bringing the city’s core to life during these disruptive and uncertain times, instilling hope and joy through art in the imaginations of Edmontonians,” says Sanjay Shahani, Executive Director of the Edmonton Arts Council.

 

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Winter Birds is another art installation happening now through April 30, celebrating the special species of birds that make Edmonton their home year-round with three glowing inflatable chickadees.

Other upcoming Downtown Spark events include Arts District Animation and Root 107.

Arts District Animation runs April 8 until May 30, featuring distinct, family-friendly digital experiences on the facades of three iconic Edmonton buildings. The Art Gallery of Alberta, Citadel Theatre, and Winspear Centre are hosting these works, created by local artists, on large outdoor LED screens, with laser projections and accompanying sound.

Root 107 comes to the city for one weekend only. From April 15 to 18, enjoy the fresh spring air while dining outdoors at local food trucks. After you chow down, shop for handmade goods at the brand-new “Makers Keep”, or sip local craft beer in the sunshine.

“It all starts with a single spark,” says the Explore Edmonton website. “Where will it ignite next?”

Downtown Spark

When: Now through May 31
Time: Varies by event
Where: Throughout downtown Edmonton
Cost: Many installations are free to view, varies by event

Elle McLeanElle McLean

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