Winnipeg Arts Council

Central Park Banners

Winnipeg artist Bîstyek is a newcomer to Canada who has spent a lot of time in Central Park. This includes time working with refugee youth. It is just a short walk from his art studio. His artwork is inspired by the neighbourhood’s rich cultural mix, including large populations of immigrants, refugees, and Indigenous people. Central Park is home to the largest concentration of Black Canadians in Manitoba, and about 70% of Winnipeg’s refugees settle in or around this area.

Central Park acts as a shared backyard where families and friends come together to meet and to play. Bîstyek’s banners capture this spirit, showcasing the warmth and diversity that make Central Park special.

The 12 unique portraits highlight different aspects of the community. They honour Elders, families, children, and Indigenous women and two-spirit folk. They also celebrate young athletes and moments of joy across the seasons, like kids playing in the splash pad during summer or skating on the ice rink in winter.

The Central Park Banner project aims to connect with the people of Central Park and create a sense of belonging for everyone who lives, works, or visits the area. These banners will be displayed for at least two years through a partnership between the Winnipeg Arts Council and the West End BIZ. This public art project is part of a broader effort by the Central Park Stewardship Committee to enhance Central Park.

The banners were officially unveiled at the Central Park playground’s grand re-opening on October 29, 2024. With live music by Wee Be Jammin’, hot cocoa, samosas, and snacks, the event was a joyful gathering that brought neighbours together. Thank you to the Central Park community for welcoming us and celebrating Bîstyek's work!

In the media

Central Park Banners Scavenger Hunt & Drawing Contest

Visit Central Park and find all 12 banners to answer fun scavenger hunt questions!

Plus, get creative in our Banner Drawing Contest: draw your own banner for Central Park and share it with us for a chance to win a t-shirt!

Bîstyek

Bîstyek is a self-taught artist based in Winnipeg. Born in Syria to a Kurdish family, he arrived in Canada as a refugee in 2017. His style is dramatic and angular, with flashes of memories captured in unsettling shapes and sometimes saturated colour. His pieces are heavily influenced by his personal life and experiences.

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