*coming soon*
These street banners — designed by Cato Cormier — reflect the energy and spirit of the South Osborne neighbourhood in Winnipeg. The banners will be installed for at least two years as part of a partnership between the Winnipeg Arts Council and the South Osborne BIZ. This project aims to celebrate the unique character of South Osborne — a cozy, walkable area filled with vibrant community life. The artwork is meant to draw people in, encouraging them to explore the area and connect with community.
For this project, Cato wanted to capture snippets of everyday life that happen in public space. These moments, which may seem fleeting or mundane, invite us to be present and to notice beauty in the small things all around us. Whether it’s a kind gesture between strangers, a joyful moment shared by friends, or someone’s eye-catching outfit — the artwork is inspired by the sense of delight and connection that witnessing or being part of these moments can bring.
Cormier spent time observing the neighbourhood, paying attention to people, moments, and scenes that stood out during their commute by bike or on foot. They recorded these observations focusing especially on silly or endearing scenes, then experimented with different ideas; depicting things like the physical comedy of carrying all the groceries in one trip or of struggling with an umbrella on a windy day; of eating in public or of getting around in all sorts of ways other than driving a car.
Cormier’s illustrations are playful, colourful, and cartoonish. The characters that make up their banner designs are lively and eccentric, reflecting the variety of people who live in and visit South Osborne. Some banners even tell a story. Look for a banner near Mulvey that shows a stormy day and hints at a windblown tree; and another nearby that shows dogs happily carrying branches in the aftermath of the storm.
The South Osborne banners remind us that joy can be found amid everyday life. By showcasing moments of happiness and whimsy, they invite people to slow down, notice their surroundings, and appreciate the small things that make life special.
