As if the Vancouver Mural Fest hasn’t already done enough to brighten the walls of this city, they continue their journey of making the skyline a bit more interesting with VMF Winter Arts.
This time instead of paint and primer, their instruments are light and augmented reality.
From February 11-27, specific sites across town will take on a new perspective with temporary exhibitions.
This is all in addition to a free all-ages licensed open-air plaza at šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square on the north side of the Vancouver Art Gallery. You’ll be able to take in live performances (Wed-Sun), sample food trucks(Wed-Sun), and revel in the creative spirit of this city!
Once you’ve had yourself a hot or cold drink from the licensed open-air bar at the plaza, then you’re off to wander the VMF Winter Arts route to explore the 11 augmented reality (AR) installations by local and international artists.
You can even witness live site-specific performances by members of CircusWest on behalf of Cirque du Soleil, Not to mention a virtual preview of iconic Cirque show, Alegría.
And to ring in the occasion, VMF will continue their Blanketing the City program with Lighting the Way, by xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Weaver and Graphic Designer, Debra Sparrow. Each day of Winter Arts, Vancouver landmarks will be transformed with Coast Salish weaving patterns and colours. The bold projections serve as reminders of the territory that we live on and how we must stand against the systemic suppression of Indigenous people and their culture.
There’s something about this festival that gives the impression of renewing our sense of identity. Coming out of a bleak couple of years, it’s important for us all to experience the beauty of this community. To nurture our creativity, and our relationships to each other.
You can find out more about the VMF Winter Arts schedule here:
winterartsfest.com
@vanmuralfest