Vibrant red banners are the latest addition to the Barclay Parade in the downtown core.
Tara Griffiths’ artwork was launched as the inaugural banner installation Thursday and the bright pieces link Steven Avenue with Eau Claire.
Inspired by the surrounding architecture, Griffiths said she wanted the banners to be a reflection of the area.
“The blue banners by Eau Clare have water elements,” explained Griffiths. “The banners along Barclay are fractals representing Calgary’s growth.”
The banners took almost a year to complete.
“I worked right up to the deadline,” said Griffiths. Using a Japanese tie-dye technique, she dipped folded fabric in dye to create her unique pieces.
Griffiths was commissioned to design the banners last year jointly through the Calgary Downtown Association and the City of Calgary.
“The CDA is extremely happy to see these banners done,” said CDA spokesperson Caralyn Macdonald. “They’re really updating the Barclay transition of the downtown Art Walk.”
The banners are expected to hang for the next two years, said Macdonald. Griffiths plans to use the leftover fabric to create one-of-a-kind bags, which will be available soon.
