From glowing glass domes to playful tactile pavilions, new public installations in Calgary’s downtown are set to dazzle residents and visitors alike. In partnership with Calgary’s winter festival Chinook Blast, the City has announced the Winter City Design Competition winners: Serenity Passage and Dot Spot.
The Winter City Design Competition is part of the Winter City Strategy, which aims to provide Calgarians with sustainable economic, social and cultural opportunities during the colder months. Now in its fifth year, the competition encourages local artists to reimagine Calgary’s outdoor spaces during winter. Through a jury comprised of local artists, architects and technical specialists, this year’s winners were chosen from over three dozen submissions for their creativity, community engagement and ability to help Calgarians mark winter as an exciting outdoor experience rather than just a season to get through.
Both installations are free to visit and on display until April 15, and they’re great ways to start exploring Calgary’s downtown winter wonders.
Serenity Passage
Wander to 828 8th Ave. S.W. and discover an illuminated archway made of over 200 glass-blown rondels (circular pieces of handblown glass that are spun until they flatten into a round plate-like shape). Walk through the colourful, seven-foot archway to take a moment of refuge from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding urban environment.
“The design muffles city sounds, offering a serene space for peace, joy or introspection and provides contemplation and refuge from the snow,” explains glass artist and contemporary sculptor Leah Petrucci, who led the project. “You can experience the passage in different conditions, with the city backdrop always visible, though the weather and people may change. Serenity Passage is an interactive installation that brings community members together to enjoy the winter season.”
Students and alumni from Alberta University of the Arts and artists from the Calgary Glass Community helped fabricate the rondels, making it a community-driven creation. Petrucci explains that many members of the glass-making community have stepped up to help with the project, donating rondels, time and studio space.
“This giving spirit, support and desire to engage are what I love about the Calgary glass community. To me, this is what community is about: sharing, helping, giving and celebrating one another,” says Petrucci. “I hope this installation encourages Calgarians to appreciate how art can transform public spaces, spark connections and celebrate the unique spirit of our community.”
Dot Spot
Located on the Bow River Pathway near 6 St. S.W., Dot Spot, an interactive installation rooted in childhood memories of tobogganing, will surely grab your attention. The fun design encourages people to linger, connect and celebrate winter together.
“Winter in Calgary has a unique energy, and this competition was the perfect opportunity to embrace that by creating a pavilion that is playful and hopefully contributes to Calgary’s growing identity as a vibrant winter city,” says Michael Zabinski, principal at Hereby, the architect firm that designed Dot Spot.
The firm created the installation using bright-blue flying-saucer snow sleds. The use of the notable item from many Canadian childhoods is an exploration of using familiar objects to create something new and unexpected. The pavilion also serves as a kiosk where the public can grab a hot chocolate or coffee.
“Public spaces are the heartbeat of the city, and activating them with projects like Dot Spot is especially important during winter when people might otherwise stay indoors,” affirms Zabinski. “These spaces create opportunities for connection and curiosity, things we all need, particularly during the winter months.”
So get outside and discover these creative installations, explore downtown Calgary and take part in Chinook Blast festivities until February 17, 2025. For more details and event updates, visit Calgary.ca/wintercity.
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