In Halifax, you’ll find amazing art where you least expect it
Halifax, the largest city in Atlantic Canada, is a hidden gem when it comes to public art. While the city is home to a thriving art scene, with the biggest art gallery in the region, it is the public installations, murals, and sculptures that truly showcase Halifax’s artistic spirit.
Lindsay Cory, the city’s community developer for public art, believes that public art has the power to tell stories, connect communities, and foster pride. One of her favorite pieces is Lace/Wood at the Keshen Goodman Public Library, an interactive mural by Andrea Tsang Jackson that brings the children’s section to life.
But there are many more hidden art treasures in Halifax waiting to be discovered. One such example is Got Drunk, Fell Down and Fountain, a playful installation by artists Chris Hanson and Hendrika Sonnenberg on the waterfront boardwalk. These twisted lampposts parody the late-night antics of downtown revelers and have become a popular spot for selfies.
Another iconic piece is The Wave by artist Donna Hiebert, a blue sculpture that has been a fixture on the Halifax waterfront since the late 1980s. While the statue itself may not be groundbreaking, the way people interact with it, sliding down its sides and gathering around it, is truly magical.
In the heart of Halifax’s North End, Duane Jones’s Squaretown Courts mural on the George Dixon Community Centre’s basketball courts pays tribute to the vibrant community and its love for basketball. The colorful mural has become a landmark for the neighborhood and a gathering place for local ballers.
On Agricola Street, the Annie Mae Pictou Aquash Legacy Mural honors the life and legacy of the Indigenous activist and educator. Painted by Tayla Paul, the vibrant mural serves as a reminder of Annie Mae’s spirit and strength, as well as a call to action to address ongoing violence against Indigenous peoples.
In downtown Dartmouth, a series of word murals created by Fathom Studio during the COVID-19 pandemic spread messages of positivity and community support. The simple yet powerful phrases, like “Be kind” and “You got this,” have become a source of inspiration and pride for the local community.
These public art installations in Halifax not only beautify the cityscape but also tell important stories, foster community connections, and inspire reflection. Whether you’re a local looking to explore your own backyard or a visitor seeking out unique art experiences, Halifax’s public art scene is sure to captivate and delight.
