This week marked another milestone in the Carling Youth Mural project.
A beautiful plaque now sits proudly between the two sections of the mural, and tells the story of this wonderful youth engagement project.
The project was carried out over two summers, 2021 and 2023. It brought together local young people to decorate the large wall at 2880 Carling Avenue with their depictions of outdoor life in Bay Ward through all seasons.
The young people were coached and assisted by two local artists, Kalkidran Assefa and Claudia Salguero. Sponsoring organizations included Boys and Girls Club, Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Centre, Britannia Woods Community House, the City of Ottawa’s Paint It Up! Program and the Bay Ward councillor’s office. The project was enhanced by a generous donation from Starlight Investments.
Next time you’re walking down Carling Avenue, stop to appreciate the beautiful artwork of local youth and read the inspiring story behind it.
The Plaque reads:
Bay Ward, Come On Outside!
These murals were designed and created by local youth as a community beautification and engagement project. The first phase of the project (2021) was led by artist Kalkidran Assefa and highlights summer outdoor activities in Bay Ward. The second phase of the project (2023) was led by artist Claudia Salguero and celebrates winter outdoor activities in Bay Ward. The project is a partnership between the City of Ottawa, Paint It Up Ottawa, Boys and Girls Club, Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Center, Britannia Woods Community House, City Councillor Theresa Kavanagh and Starlight Investments. It celebrates the shared values of friendship, community, diversity and inclusion of youth in the life of Bay Ward.
