The Arts Collective Olds Unveils New Public Art Installation "Sunflower"

June 14, 2024

Artist stands in front of her sunflower-as-a-streetlight painting holding the light switch string that makes up the interactive element of the painting.

The Arts Collective Olds (TACO) is pleased to announce the unveiling of a new public art installation, in collaboration with Uptowne Olds and the Town of Olds.

TACO, a community initiative supported by the Town of Olds and Mountain View Power, is dedicated to fostering the growth of arts and culture within our community. The committee comprises six passionate volunteer members: Lindsay Caskey, Jeff Fraser, Amy Lee, Alanna Knobben, Lori-Jo Graham, and Jillian Toellner. Their mission is to enrich the cultural landscape of Olds and engage the community through the arts.

The newest art installation, titled “Sunflower,” now graces the exterior of Kinh Vietnamese Restaurant in Uptowne Olds, a building owned by Derek Doi. The artwork was created by Kyla Organ, a former Ecole Olds High School student, "Sunflower" is an interactive piece designed to encourage community engagement and photo opportunities.

Artist’s Inspiration

Organ’s practice revolves around identity and cultural exploration. As the daughter of an RCMP member, Kyla lived in many different communities. For her, community is more about a sense of belonging than a physical space. “For this piece I drew inspiration from interactive ‘graffiti’ art where viewers are able to pose and take snapshots with the artwork. As a result, I ended up with the idea of a lamp that turns on from a dangle that can be mock-held by the viewer,” Organ explains “I wanted it to be significant to Olds and Alberta as a whole, so I spent a lot of time thinking of physical symbols of the community…that make Alberta unique as a province and… things that are appreciated in Olds and the surrounding area.”

Art Installation

The artwork's installation was facilitated by Uptowne Olds, with Lindsay Caskey of Jensen’s Men’s Wear playing a crucial role in the project. “I joined the public art committee because I believe in the power of public art to enhance our community and attract visitors. As a business owner in Uptowne Olds, I am delighted that we were able to collaborate with Kyla, the Town of Olds, Mr. Doi, and Kinh Vietnamese to bring this project to life! It adds so much value, encourages visits and builds on the vibrancy of Uptowne Olds,” remarked Caskey.

Mountain View Power (MVP)

MVP is a community-owned energy marketer, selling electricity, natural gas, and solar energy programs to residents of Central Alberta. All MVP profits are reinvested into the community through various means. $5,000 of MVP profits are designated annually to public art initiatives like this one.

TACO: The Arts Collective Olds

The Arts Collective Olds aims to foster a growing arts community, celebrate local talent, and create opportunities for artistic endeavors in our town. The committee is a new group, with roots in the previous public art committee. It will be focused on building further strategies, providing opportunities for participation, and connecting the community with a new website and plans for public engagement. To get involved, find the group on Facebook at: https://link.edgepilot.com/s/9bee8315/1xiyuplDqkSsuOXpnmQg-A?u=https://www.facebook.com/groups/436459071667124