Copper Cliff celebrated the installation of its first community mural Saturday morning at the community’s branch of the Greater Sudbury Public Library.
The art installation is the result of collaborative efforts from community groups and residents of all ages in the Copper Cliff area of the city.
With support from the City of Greater Sudbury’s Healthy Community Initiatives (HCI) Fund, Copper Cliff Community Action Network (CAN) members and neighbourhood artists Laura-Leigh and Wallace Gillard led the project, promoting local beautification and community spirit.
A team of 30 residents met weekly throughout the summer months to share ideas and bring the 12x16-foot mural to life.
“As long time residents of the town of Copper Cliff, we are absolutely honoured to have facilitated this mural project,” said the Gillards.
“We wish to thank the Copper Cliff CAN, St. John the Divine Church, the Copper Cliff Public Library, the City of Greater Sudbury, Healthy Kids Initiative, Activate your Neighbourhood, Councillor Michael Vagnini, and all of the participants who have helped to make this project such a success. We truly couldn't have done it without the tremendous amount of support we received. Let's keep Copper Cliff beautiful!”
The Copper Cliff CAN is a volunteer organization that promotes partnerships, community spirit and works to improve quality of life and space in the neighbourhood throughout the year.
“This project directly supports the City of Greater Sudbury’s priorities of strengthening our city’s quality of life and place, growing the economy, and improving the community's infrastructure," said Ward 2 Coun. Michael Vagnini.
"I am pleased to see the successful installation of this artwork that will be admired by residents and visitors of Copper Cliff for years to come, and I commend the efforts of everyone involved in this collaboration.”
The organization leads initiatives such as the Annual Community Yard Sale, Annual Tree Lighting Celebration, ongoing beautification and is also working to bring a splash pad to the community.
The CAN works in co-operation with the City of Greater Sudbury and is a collaborative effort of citizens who care about where they live and want to make their neighbourhood the best it can possibly be.
“The spirit of volunteerism and community-building truly came to life through this project, channeled through two of our neighbourhood artists with vision and dedication to making Copper Cliff the best it can be," said - Lisa Demmer, Chair, Copper Cliff CAN.
"The beautiful installation we celebrate today certainly reflects their artistic excellence, but most importantly the contributions and teamwork from residents of all ages and backgrounds. A project of this nature was long overdue in our community, and the CAN looks forward to seeing even more community spirit come to life through art and other initiatives.”
