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A painted concrete barrier by artist Josh LeClerc is shown as part of the Concrete Barrier Program in Toronto. Lloydminster is planning a similar project as part of its 2026 mural festival. (Image Credit: symbolikone/StreetARToronto)
ART

Nearly 20 painted barriers to be installed in Lloydminster as part of the Mural Fest

Apr 8, 2026 | 2:39 PM

A public art project showcasing local and emerging artists is moving ahead after Lloydminster city council approved funding for the 2026 Lloyd Mural Fest.

Council voted Tuesday to allocate $11,500 from the city’s public art capital reserve to support the purchase of up to six painted concrete barriers as part of the annual initiative.

Natalie Clysdale, with the Public Art Advisory Committee, said the request followed an approach from the mural festival committee earlier this year for support on its 2026 cement barrier project.

“The Mural Festival is an annual event that hosts a variety of muralists painting a series of parking barriers in their own style,” she told council.

The barriers are expected to be installed at Driven Energy Ball Park. The broader project will include nearly 20 pieces, with additional barriers funded through sponsorships from local businesses and organizations.

A painted concrete barrier by artist Joanna Katchutas is shown as part of the Concrete Barrier Program in Toronto.
A painted concrete barrier by artist Joanna Katchutas is shown as part of the Concrete Barrier Program in Toronto. (Image Credit: symbolikone/StreetARToronto)

Clysdale said the initiative is designed to “beautify the community and showcase the work of a variety of local and regional artists, as well as emerging youth artists.”

Council members voiced support for the program.

“I think it’s an amazing way for youth to be involved in the community, young artists who maybe aren’t sports folks, but have other interests for their interest to be showcased,” said Coun. Michele Charles Gustafson.

“I’ve noticed all the barriers that they did and then placed around the city. It seems like something small, but it actually is a very expressive way of showing what is important to our community.”

The funding request is higher than last year’s $7,500 contribution.

Clysdale said increased costs and a stronger focus on compensating artists contributed to the change.

“There’s a drive to pay the artists, compensate the artists a little better this year than last,” she said, adding rising material costs have also contributed.

Administration also noted that, unlike last year, the city will rely on newly fabricated barriers rather than reusing existing ones, after previous challenges with durability.

While the city’s funding will cover up to six barriers, the mural festival committee will lead the overall project, including coordinating artists and securing additional sponsorships.

Clysdale said the initiative aligns with the city’s strategic priorities, noting that public artwork is “an important element in the beautification of the City of Lloydminster.”

The 2026 Lloyd Mural Fest will run from July 8 to July 11 at the Lloydminster Exhibition Grounds.

cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com