1. Giving Wings to the Dream, Doug Driediger
In 1995, Doug Driediger painted “Giving Wings To The Dream” on the former CUPS building, located across from the Convention Centre LRT Station on 7th Ave SW.
This artwork embodies the mission of CUPS, a non-profit dedicated to supporting Calgarians facing adversity by helping them rebuild their lives. The dove, a universal symbol of peace and renewal, holds even greater significance in today’s context than it did when the mural was first unveiled.
2. Calgary Village Mural, Champion of Human Rights
Check out the awesome mural on the side of Villages Calgary, a cool fair-trade boutique packed with goodies from over 50 countries. You can find it over on 2nd Ave NW by Crowchild Trail. It’s not just any mural—it’s one of Calgary’s most eye-catching, seen by thousands of drivers every hour during the day.
What makes it even cooler? The mural isn’t just for show; it’s tailored specifically to reflect what’s inside the store. It’s like the artwork and the shop have this awesome connection that makes the whole place even more special.
3. Baron George Stephen, Charles Designs
Check out the mural on the old Hudson Bay Department store at Sonora Ave SW—it’s all about Baron Stephen, the big shot behind Stephen Avenue and the Canadian Pacific Railway. Here’s what you’ll find:
Imagine a train chugging along, representing how Baron Stephen helped stitch Canada together from coast to coast. There’s also Mount Stephen, a nod to the mountain in Yoho National Park.
On one side, symbols show he was a big deal, like getting knighted in 1905. Inside that part, you’ll see nods to his life building stuff and giving back.
And don’t miss the animals! The beaver’s there, a nod to Hudson’s Bay Company kicking off in Calgary and Stephen Avenue becoming a bustling hub for business.
