Caribou council green-lights downtown mural by Felicia Blackstone, funds project from downtown infrastructure account

Artist Felicia Blackstone presented a design concept for a downtown mural called “Caribou through the years,” asking the council for permission and support to proceed. She described a continuous mural flowing through seasons and time — from an old farmer’s market scene to contemporary harvest images, Mi'kmaq and local traditions, inset "photo-op" panels, and a final scene of children floating down the river.

“What I want to do is take everything that Caribou has been throughout this time of harvest and the Mi’kmaq starting from the very beginning,” Blackstone told the council, and said she had photographed many reference images herself and planned protective UV and anti-graffiti coatings.

Staff told the council the initial year cost is approximately $8,200 and noted $15,000 is currently in the downtown infrastructure account. During public forum follow-up, staff said the city could either proceed with the local artist or issue an open RFP for public art. Some councilors preferred a broader procurement process; others emphasized timing (summer availability) and the opportunity of having a local artist ready to begin. The council added the mural as new business (item 10g) later in the meeting and approved a motion to accept Felicia Blackstone’s proposal and fund it from account 11-01-385-01.

Why it matters: The mural is intended as a multi-year downtown placemaking project that highlights local history and traditions. Council discussion balanced desire for community input against the opportunity to work with a local artist who is prepared to start this season.

Next steps: Staff (Penny) will follow up with the artist on scope, timeline, and required materials/permits; procurement details and execution scheduling will be handled through the downtown infrastructure account.