New downtown wall mural captures Brampton’s horticultural history

The unveiling of a mural commissioned to celebrate Brampton’s 50th anniversary of becoming a city will highlight a special art walk through Brampton on Sunday (Dec. 1).

Called Blossoming Brampton, the creation by artist Jerry Rugg (aka birdO) was chosen from among several other entrants in the mural completion which will see the artwork featured on the wall of the Rose Theatre.

In the spring of this year, the city put out a call for artists to create a mural for the ​exterior of The Rose.

From the submissions received, five artists were shortlisted to design mural concepts, which were shared  for community feedback. A selection committee reviewed the mural​ designs against weighted criteria, with consideration given to community feedback, and recommended Blossoming Brampton as the winning mural concept.

The unveiling comes after several months of preparation by the artist at the site.

According to Rugg, using images from various local gardens, his team developed a flower arrangement representing Brampton’s nickname as the “City of Flowers” and its perpetual growth.

Mirroring Brampton and its countless green spaces and trails that offer diversity, he said the flower arrangement is meant to echo that richness and variety.

“Our feathered friend at the centre of our piece is a nondescript union of the many birds in the region that play a key role in the ecosystem and biodiversity,” said Rugg. “Its representation speaks to the beauty and verdure of the city, emphasizing the value the city has placed on protecting nature while keeping it wholly accessible to its residents.”

Along with the unveiling, the walk will feature a reception as well as a tour of other murals that have been created in Brampton as well as an opportunity to meet some of the artists.

The entire program runs from 2:30 to 4 p.m.

There is no charge to take part in the event but it is recommended you reserve a spot in advance for the tour. You can do so here.