During the summer months, a project was being created bringing the community together to share local heritage highlights and focal points of Stittsville. Driving down Stittsville Main, residents watched with anticipation, eager for a glimpse of what was taking shape behind the scaffolding at Pretty Pots Flowers. On Saturday, September 26th, to much fanfare, the unveiling of ‘Field Notes from Stittsville’ transpired – adding a stunning addition to Stittsville and our Main Street.
Youth played a large part in bringing the artistic creation to the realization of a beautiful mural. Through the Paint it Up! Program, the Stittsville Village Association received funding to create the mural. Plans began in May when Shasha Jimenez French, artist and owner of Birdgirl Arts, offered her studio and artistic talent to lead the project, alongside Erin Zuber, Vice-President of the SVA.
It was an exciting day when the mural was seen in its fullness, with the water tower, steam engine, biking, walking a dog, our flora and fauna, Alex the fox, and, of course, those who have lived here for quite some time, Mowoo, our beloved community fawn from 1987.
Shasha shared, “We spent a lot of time talking with the community and neighbours about the imagery of Stittsville that brings them joy. From the fish and native flora, to the water tower and the trails, all the small moments that bring us together across different neighbourhoods.
Working with the youth on the project was really amazing. We have some incredible young adults in our community and it’s great to see what they can do when they’re supported. I’m so grateful to the City of Ottawa and our community sponsors Rona+ Kanata, the SVA, and Pretty Pots for bringing this project to life.”
At the unveiling party, Erin greeted and introduced Indigenous Elder, Barbara Hill, who offered a land welcoming and blessing for the mural. Erin said, “This was a tremendous community project providing an opportunity for our youth to build on their entrepreneurial skills, engaging with the public and instilling a foundation of community pride for them. This has been such a meaningful experience for me to work with the youth and Sasha to create a beautiful landmark here in Stittsville, to be enjoyed now and by generations to come”.
Councillor Gower offered his appreciation for all of the work and talent that went into creating the mural. He was pleased to see the number of youth in our community participating and gave each a Certificate of Appreciation.
Each of the following 19 youth are to be commended for their contribution to creating an eye-catching mural in the hub of Stittsville: Amelia Chow, Anna-Marie Dallaire, Ava Pilon, Coralea McLaughlin, Isabelle Paris, Jemma Antoszek, Maeva Bizier, Rae Tuplin, Samantha Reesor, Maya Campbell, Max Mestrovic, Avery Nokes, Ada Kirkwood, Ada Oberwarth, Alex Ciccolini, Alexis Clark, Charlotte Williams, Claire Jenkins, and Quinton Zheng.
A mural in a prominent location in Stittsville has been a passion for Mandy Hambly. This was an opportunity for her to assist with the application process and pursuing her devotion to have a mural that the community could appreciate.
Mandy shared, “I had originally spoken to Courtney about her building 6 years ago – and had been trying to find an interested business owner for two years before finding her. I am so glad that the location is central – and visible. Originally Courtney offered the south side of her building, but this year she said if we get the grant, let’s do the north side. Great decision!
A large part of the application was proving that there is a graffiti and tagging problem on Main Street. I have been documenting and reporting graffiti on Main Street for years now, long before it was part of my job with the Councillor’s office. Together Erin, Sasha and I were able to put together a compelling application for the grant, and things have unfolded smoothly since receiving the grant. Having the project sponsored by Rona was a surprise boost!
We all hope this mural inspires other business and landowners on Main Street to show some imagination with their own property, and to help contribute to the beautification of Stittsville’s historic district.”
Thanks to Mandy’s perseverance, and the collaboration of Stittsville Village Association, Birdgirl Arts, Pretty Pots Flowers & Gifts and Rona+ Stittsville-Kanata, this mural project provided community involvement and youth an opportunity to showcase their talent bringing a lasting colourful and playful landmark to Stittsville Main Street. We look forward to hearing about another!