The City of Lethbridge is rolling out something new! The City of Lethbridge Public Art program is looking for local artists to design artwork for downtown. This initiative invites local artists to reimagine two sets of shutters at 319 4th Street South (home of Fee Simple Law, formerly Bell's Welding) with bold, original vinyl wrap designs. This pilot aims to spark conversations around art in unexpected places and brighten the streetscape after hours.
Why Roll Shutters?
As roll shutters become a common feature in downtown storefronts, their visibility (especially when businesses are closed) offer a unique opportunity. Instead of blank metal, imagine bold color, local culture, and meaningful design. In addition, the beautiful design, vinyl wraps can help deter graffiti, extent the lifetime of the shutters, and create a more aesthetic nighttime atmosphere.
The wraps are designed to last about 3-5 years, making them great temporary public art for across downtown. If the pilot is a success, the city hopes to expand the program to more locations in the future.
Who Can Apply?
This opportunity is open to artists of all ages and experience levels residing in the Lethbridge & District area, defined as Treaty 7 territory from County Warner to the B.C. border and from Vulcan County south to the U.S. border.
The selected artist will receive:
-$500 + GST for design development
-$750 + GST upon final approval and licensing of the final work
The design will be printed on vinyl and installed by City contractors in September 2025, weather permitting.
Design Guidelines
Final designs should:
-Add vibrancy and visual interest to the downtown core
-Be engaging from both walking and driving perspectives
-Be suitable for a general audience
Reflect at least one of the following themes:
-Professionalism
-Historical Connection
-The Oldman River & Coulees
Please note:
-All artwork must be original (no AI-generated content).
-No advertising or business names may appear in the design (a discreet artist signature is allowed).
-Artists may use analog or digital techniques.
-A graphic designer will assist the selected artist in preparing files for production.
How to Apply
Submit a single PDF that includes:
-Your CV or a description of your artistic experience
-Your contact information
-A one-page letter of interest, including a brief concept statement and intended medium
-5-10 labeled images of relevant past work
Send your application by email to:
KT Wilde, Public Art Coordinator
publicart@artslethbridge.org
Subject line: Roll Shutter Vinyl Application
Deadline to apply: Tuesday, June 10, 2025
Whether you're a muralist, painter, digital artist, or illustrator. This is a fantastic opportunity to bring art into public space and be part of something new in the heart of our city.
To learn more about this and for more artist opportunities around Lethbridge visit http://lethbridgepublicart.ca/ and http://artslethbridge.org/ .
