KELOWNA – Kelowna is home to more than 60 pieces of public art. Some are iconic pieces like Bear in Stuart Park and Ogopogo in Kerry Park that attract visitors from around the world, but even some of the lesser known pieces help to foster a sense of place and an emotional attachment to Kelowna’s urban environment.

The City of Kelowna is putting out a call to volunteers interested in helping identify future priorities for Kelowna’s Public Art Program. Approximately 40 participants will have an opportunity to participate in a community discussion on Wednesday, Nov. 4, from 7 to 9 p.m.

“The purpose of the Public Art Program is to help create culturally-enriched public spaces,” said Patrick McCormick, the staff member who administers the Program. “Our last public input was in 2011 when we discussed community perspectives on what constitutes excellence for public art in our city. At this point, we want to do a check to make sure we’re heading in the right direction and to see if there are ways to better achieve Program goals. This will help inform the next three years of the program.”

To sign up for the community discussion, email pmccormick@kelowna.ca by end of day October 26 with your contact information. Names will be drawn by lottery as there’s limited seating. Selected participants will be contacted by October 28.

Residents are also encouraged to provide input through the online engagement tool at getinvolved.kelowna.ca from Thursday, Nov. 5, to Friday, Nov. 27. Online participants will be able to give their thoughts on public art priorities and comment on the outcomes from the community discussion.