Sunnyside Under the Rainbow

  • Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association
  • Summer 2017
Under the rainbow bridge in Sunnyside.
Under the rainbow bridge in Sunnyside.

The Under the Rainbow mural project brought neighbours together to transform a neglected underpass in Sunnyside into a vibrant, welcoming place. With the support of an ActivateYYC grant, community members rallied around the idea of painting a rainbow under the LRT bridge, turning a once-overlooked space into a colourful and engaging piece of public art.

About 20 residents helped paint the mural, and many more continue to experience it as they pass through the area each day. The simple design of the mural meant that people of all ages and abilities could pitch in to create it. One passerby suggested painting the rocks below the mural. This suggestion allowed younger volunteers to participate and let the fun to go on longer when painting the mural itself was over a little too soon. By activating this space through art, the underpass is a brighter and safer place for those who live, walk, and play nearby.