About Stampede Public Art Committee

Mandate

Welcome to the Calgary Stampede Public Art Committee website.

The Public Art Committee was created in 2008 with a mandate to reach out to our community at large, to tell the story of, and retain our western heritage and values. As Past-President George Brookman said when he introduced the public art program, “Public art helps us remember our past, honour our ideals, express our shared values and give voice to our future aspirations. We want our bronzes to reflect the excitement and pride in our western heritage.”

To date, the committee has proudly unveiled two significant pieces of art: “Outlaw,” honouring one of the rankest bulls ever and “Do Re Me Fa Sol La Si Do,” Joe Fafard’s story-telling horses which we also gifted to our sister-city, Quebec City in honour of its 400th anniversary. Both pieces reside in downtown Calgary. The last bronze that was unveiled, in June 2012, was “By the Banks of the Bow;” 15 horses and two riders crossing the Bow, is said to be one of the largest pieces of art in North America!

Recently, the committee’s mandate expanded to include two other important responsibilities: 1) playing a key role in reviewing and evaluating art intended to be a gift to the Calgary Stampede and 2) working with Park Planning to identify the best location for existing and future art on Stampede Park taking into consideration an on-going maintenance and care program for each.

The Stampede’s passion for public art dates back to 1912, when Ed Borein and Charlie Russell showcased their artwork at the Calgary Stampede. By the 1980s the Western Art Show had become a regular feature of the 10-day Stampede. Today, the Stampede’s annual Western Art Show is one of Canada’s most significant art shows. 

The Stampede also celebrates art and western heritage year-round through the historical mural program and the parade of historical posters. The Public Art committee also works closely with the Historical Committee to showcase the most significant pieces of art at Stampede Park.

And of course, none of this would be possible without our funding donors. Their support of our community outreach programs makes all of this possible.

On behalf of the entire Public Art Committee, thank you for visiting our website. We hope you will have the chance to enjoy our art first hand.

Tammy Yamkowy, Chair - Public Art Committee