Community, Colour, Connection: The Art Bar Mural at Canopy Studios
Community, Colour, Connection: The Art Bar Mural at Canopy Studios
Turning Walls Into Stories
Canopy Studios isn’t just a creative hub in Calgary; it’s a place where art, movement, and community come together. They started Art Bar this year, and it needed a transformation. We were excited to bring it to life. The goal? A vibrant, welcoming mural that would brighten the space and invite the community to leave their mark.
Timeline for project: July 31st to August 7, 2025
PROJECT CHALLENGES
The Challenges:
The wall was blank, bold, and begging for colour. We needed a mural that captured the energy of the studio, reflected Canopy’s palette, and could be completed in a way that allowed community participation. With over 50 people picking up brushes, the design had to feel both approachable and cohesive.
The Concept
We designed a mural that celebrates connection, colour, and movement. Inspired by Canopy’s brand colours, the shapes and patterns flow across the wall like a living landscape. To make it easy for community members to contribute, we structured the mural as a paint-by-number style design—giving everyone a space to add colour without worrying about making mistakes, while keeping the final piece polished and harmonious.
From Sketch to Final
Prepping & Sketching the Design onto the wall
We began by taping the wall and then mapped out the mural directly on it. Light sketches outlined shapes and sections for community painting. This stage set the tone, flow, and structure of the mural, ensuring everyone had a clear guide for where their brushstrokes would go.
Prepping the Wall
A solid base coat was applied to make colours pop. We use the best paint for durability outdoors. Prepping also helped the paint-by-number sections stand out, guiding contributors to their spots with clarity.
Layering Colour with Community
Over several days in August 2025, nearly 50 community members helped paint. Each participant added their touch to the vibrant shapes, blending personal expression with the structured design.
Using Canopy’s signature colours, the mural grew into a lively tapestry of connection, joy, and pride in the neighbourhood.
Final Details and Touch-Ups
After the community painting, we added final layers and outlines to unify the piece. Small adjustments enhanced depth, ensured colour consistency, and made the mural “pop” from every angle. The result is a harmonious, energetic artwork that feels alive and inviting.
IMPACT & RESULTS
The mural transformed the Art Bar into a vibrant, welcoming space. Passersby and neighbours have shared how much it brightens the street, and Canopy’s team loves how it now reflects their spirit and community focus. It’s more than just colour on walls—it’s connection, pride, and joy visible to everyone who passes by.
FROM THE CLIENT
The Bear and the Unicorn created a stunning mural for our Art Bar area at Canopy Studios Art and Wellness and the entire experience was incredible. Maya and David were an absolute pleasure to work with—they took the time to understand me, my business, and our values. From our first discovery meeting to the concept presentation and finally bringing it to life on the exterior of our building, they exceeded every expectation.
At Canopy Studios, we believe in the healing power of the arts, and they beautifully captured our pillars of discover, create, connect, and heal in the artwork for all to enjoy. Beyond the mural itself, they invited our community to take part in the painting, welcoming everyone with patience, warmth, and inclusive energy. They also thoughtfully documented the process, creating amazing social media content and graciously tagging us to help share our story and grow our reach.
The whole process felt magical, and the final result is nothing short of spectacular. We are so grateful!
Kim Webb
Owner at Canopy Studios
LOOKING FOR A MURAL ARTIST?
Whether you're in Calgary, across Alberta, or beyond, we’re here to help you create moments that invite connection and creativity. A well-designed mural doesn’t just enhance a space—it sparks engagement and leaves a lasting impact. Let’s collaborate to bring your vision to life.
