A mural in Nanaimo’s south end will get a revamp from its original artist. Yvonne Vander Kooi painted Land, Sea and Sky at Deverill Square Park in 2009. The city says the work is showing signs of wear and has reached the end of its life.
Vander Kooi plans to consult south end residents for inspiration for a replacement piece that reflects the neighbourhood. The new mural will cover the entire building at the park and will be inspired by residents’ photos of their favourite garden plants and pollinators.
“Public art is at its most special when it reflects the people and places it belongs to. This project celebrates that sentiment – honouring a familiar artwork while creating something new and inspiring for everyone to enjoy,” said Jaime-Brett Sine, culture coordinator for the city.
The city says the old mural will be sandblasted off Nov. 10-12, and the washrooms will be closed while work is underway. The new mural is scheduled for completion in spring 2026.
Jesse Gray’s sculpture Chimes for the South End will be reinstalled at the park along with other public art projects at the same time as the new mural unveiling.
