City of Prince Rupert reveals art work destined for new RCMP Detachment building

The image of what the new RCMP detachment in Prince Rupert will look like
once construction is complete in the downtown area of the city

The City has followed up on an announcement from the summer time that noted of the success for three artists in the region from their call for submissions for art work for the new RCMP Detachment. 

The municipal policing facility is currently under construction on Third Avenue East adjacent to the Court House.

At the August 28th Council session Council revealed the result of the competition and the names of the successful artist, Nicholas John, Chris Fraser and Kristen Mckay. 

We made note of their success with this piece at the end of August.

The work that were submitted caught the eye of the City's adjudication panel made up of artists Lynn Cocinai and Kelli Clifton. As well as Sandy Jones from the Prince Rupert Community Arts Council, Veronika Stewart representing the City of Prince Rupert and Gerry Walker the officer in charge of the detachment.

Mr. John's work (above) which was awarded the top prize of 10,000 dollars, will be the first of the artwork to be on display once the detachment build is complete. 

His overview of his submsission from the statement today provides a glimpse of the background behind his artistic process.

“I am honoured to have my submission selected to be placed on our local RCMP at the new Municipal Police Detachment building in Prince Rupert. The centre of the artwork features a majestic eagle, symbolizing strength and grace, reflecting the local RCMP's unwavering commitment to protecting and serving our community. The surrounding imagery of towering tree tops pays homage to Prince Rupert's rainforest, reminding us of our shared responsibility to preserve our heritage for future generations. The stripes in the background represent the rainbow, symbolizes the city's diversity, and is intended to foster unity and pride in our interconnectedness.”  -- Artist, Nicholas John

Prince Rupert Mayor Herb Pond observed of the scope of submissions from the competition and what the successful proposal from Mr John will bring to the downtown area.

“Not only is this building going to breathe some new life into the entrance to our downtown, but the community will get to enjoy Nick’s artwork for generations to come. He clearly put a good amount of thought and effort into our brief as well as the space and medium, and this is a well deserved reward. We also appreciate all of the other artists who took the time out to make a submission, and encourage them to continue to look to future opportunities with us.”

The original call for artists to submit their work was made on May 30th.

The competition closed on July 31and attracted 11 proposals.  

Both Chris Fraser and Kristen Mckay will see their work included in later projects in the community.

The City of Prince Rupert information release provided their submissions as well for public review.

The City's full statement on the artwork initiative can be reviewed here.

More notes related to City Council Discussion themes can be explored from our archive page.