Public invited to check out graffiti mural project at Composite High School

Residents are invited to drop by and see the creation of a very special mural at Composite High this weekend, the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo announced today.

The mural is being painted on the back exterior wall of Composite High School by professional street artist Wil Yee as part of a graffiti abatement project.

“This initiative serves the two fold purpose to prevent graffiti and beautify a neighbourhood with public art,” said Mayor Melissa Blake. “Not only is it a great way to brighten our community, but I appreciate the fact that it engages our young people, and shows them a positive way to express themselves.”

The project is the result of discussions at the October 2011 Community Art Session. Participants expressed a desire to see public art projects in Wood Buffalo that address graffiti issues. The initiative is being led by the Municipality’s Beautification and Culture Work Units in partnership with the Fort McMurray Public School District, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Municipality’s Parks Services and Aluma Systems.

“Composite High School had a real problem with graffiti during the 2010/2011 school year. So much so, that it cost them nearly $32,000 to repair the damage,” said Beautification Co-ordinator Jillian MacDonald. “Creating programs like this, that includes students in the process shows them there is a legal way to participate in street art. We look forward to working with more youth on dynamic projects like this in the future.”

Work on the mural began on Monday, May 14 and will continue through the weekend. The final product will be unveiled at a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday May 29th at 10:00 a.m. All are welcome to attend the event.

Media inquiries may be directed to:

Jillian MacDonald

Beautification Coordinator

780-788-4349

Matthew Harrison

Communication Dept.

780-788-4364