Name: Edmonton Arts Council
Price range: $

Join the Edmonton Arts Council (EAC) throughout October to mark a double milestone in the local arts scene: 30 years of the EAC and the addition of the 300^th public artwork to the City of Edmonton Public Art Collection.

300th artwork

The 300^th artwork is Edmonton’s first playground designed in collaboration with an artist. Created by local artist AJA Louden, the new Balwin Playground will blend art, play, and community. Inspired by both nature and science fiction, it’s a space to imagine, explore and grow together.

At the heart of it all is Piney P: a playful pineapple character created by AJA. Piney P proudly stands tall as the protector of the playground. AJA drew inspiration from many sources: a mysterious seed landing on the Prairies, his Jamaican-Canadian roots, and cultural traditions where drumming is central to connection and storytelling. That’s why you’ll find a drumming circle in the playground, inviting kids to drum, play and create rhythm together.

AJA Louden during early construction of the Balwin playground

How to get involved in 300 @ 30

Throughout October, the EAC will be hosting free events, tours, pop-ups and contests!

Highlights include:

October 10, 3 – 5 pm. Public Art Pop-up at Terwillegar dog park, meet the artist, Royden Mills.

October 11, hourly. Public art walking tour: Tawatinâ Bridge, featuring the artist, David Garneau (registration required).

October 11, 3 – 5 pm. Public art celebration in Churchill Square, featuring the artists from Red Knot Studio.

October 12, 9 am, 11 am and 2 pm. Public art walking tour: ᐄᓃᐤ (ÎNÎW) River Lot 11∞ Indigenous Art Park, featuring artist, Tiffany Shaw (registration required).

October 17, 3:30 – 5:30 pm. 300^th artwork unveiling at Balwin Playground. Meet the artist, AJA Louden.

October 19, 10:30 – 11:30 am. The Poetry of Public Art in collaboration with LitFest and the Mary Burlie Society. Featuring Titilope Sonuga, Naomi McIlwraith and Cui Jinzhe at Boa & Hare (registration required).