This coverage is from Northern Sentinel and the full article can be viewed here.
By Quinn Bender
July 23, 2025
A massive mural celebrating Haisla culture and coastal life is rapidly transforming the back wall of Save-On-Foods in Kitimat. At 2,890 square feet, it is the largest artwork yet organized by the Kitimat Public Art Alliance.
“It’s not done yet, but it’s already been really transformative,” said Maya Brown, chair of the alliance. “You have to see it in person.”
The mural brings to life an underwater scene teeming with ulichan and salmon. A ghost salmon — significant in Haisla traditions — swims among stylized cedar logs, inlets and islets, anchoring the artwork in the land and waters of Haisla territory.
Three years in the making, the mural faced several delays. It was first planned with Haisla artist Paul Windsor, but when the store’s original manager left and Windsor became unavailable, the project was temporarily paused. Once a new manager was in place, the alliance helped reconnect the store with Haisla artist Alexander Erickson to lead the cultural elements of the design.
The team now painting the wall includes Erickson along with Stephanie Anderson, Facundo Gastiazoro and Amanda Hugo — the artists behind Raven Tacuara.
Painting began roughly four days ago and is expected to be finished in about 10 more.
The Kitimat Public Art Alliance describes itself as a coalition of diverse individuals and organizations dedicated to bringing murals and other public art projects to downtown Kitimat.
In 2025, the District of Kitimat allocated $35,000 in operating funds to the Kitimat Public Art Alliance. Artists working on public mural projects are provided with modest compensation for their time and effort. The mural currently underway has also been supported through in-kind donations. Leavitt donated the use of a scissor lift, and Emporium Builders contributed paint and supplies. Several local restaurants are providing lunches, while individual community members prepare additional meals or donate gift cards for the artists.
WRITTEN BY:
Brandon Wirsz
