Mountainside Pool is going to get 'artsy' - artists invited to submit ideas.

By Staff

August 16th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

The Mountainside Pool is going to get a mural

The City is seeking Expressions of Interest from professional artists or artist teams to create a mural. The mural is for a large exterior wall as part of the Mountainside Pool Revitalization Project.

This is a two-stage competition.

In Stage One, artists will submit their qualifications and an Expression of Interest Statement.

In Stage Two, three artists will be short-listed to create a full design proposal. Shortlisted artists will be given an honorarium of $1,500 to create their design proposals.

Architect’s rendering of the pool that is now complete – mural to be installed.

A citizen advisory committee of local artists, residents and stakeholders explored project goals and themes. Artists are invited to respond to one or more aspects of the project goals determined by the Mountainside Pool Mural Steering Committee.

Who can apply?
This competition is open to professional artists or artist teams. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to oversee the design, fabrication and installation of a large-scale mural in a public space. The selected artist/artist team must be available for meetings with project staff and the Steering Committee. We encourage submissions from artists from equity seeking groups, including 2SLGBTQ+, Indigenous, Black, and racialized artists, as well as deaf artists and artists with disabilities.

The Mountainside Pool Mural Project Goals:
• Create a contemporary, professional mural that is welcoming to families and pool users
• Reflect a spirit of inclusion, community building and belonging
• Demonstrate an understanding of or connection to the Mountainside community
• Celebrate the unique natural environment surrounding the facility; Mountainside is a neighbourhood in a natural setting (i.e. wood lot, connections to Niagara escarpment, etc.)
• Artists are encouraged to consider ways to incorporate community engagement into their project design (not mandatory)

The recreation Centre was given a total makeover – use of wood through made the entrance very welcoming. Very little cinder block anywhere.

Mountainside Pool Revitalization Project
Mountainside Pool revitalization project is scheduled to be completed in the spring of 2023. Once the revitalization is complete, the facility will be a fun and welcoming multi-use outdoor swimming pool that invites the community to participate and experience swimming and water play while encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle.

Deadline Activity

Sept. 16 Expressions of Interest responses due

By Oct. 31 Three artists selected for shortlist (develop detailed design proposals)

Dec. 16 Detailed design proposals due

Jan 2023 Public consultation; interviews with shortlisted artists

Feb 2023 Winning proposal is selected; artist enters into a contract with the City of Burlington

May/June 2023 Mural is installed; public unveiling

Related news story:

Makeover of the Mountainside Recreation Centre