Port Coquitlam residents are invited to celebrate the launch of the city’s first Pride Public Art project on Friday, August 2 from 4-6:00 p.m. in Leigh Square.

The Pride Public Art project is a community-engaged public art installation led by local visual artist Steve Baylis that recognizes and celebrates Port Coquitlam’s LGBTQ2+ community. Born in Port Coquitlam, Baylis is an internationally recognized visual artist whose work has been exhibited in both local and international galleries.

The artwork, installed in the fountain area in Leigh Square, includes a vibrant and colourful rainbow wrap around the bases of the benches. Working with members of the community, Baylis is painting selected concrete tiles using oil-based paints. The artwork provides a space for reflection, opportunities for dialogue, deepening relationships and fostering inclusivity and community pride.

The launch event coincides with Pride weekend and is an opportunity to celebrate Port Coquitlam’s LGBTQ2+ community. Residents can meet artist Steve Baylis, engage with LGBTQ2+ community resource groups, take in music by Lower Mainland performers Kimmortal and Parlour Panther and enjoy colourful fresh fruit popsicles (complimentary to the first 150 attendees).

In addition to the launch event, Port Coquitlam is celebrating Pride from August 1 to 4 by lighting City Hall at night in the colours of the LGBTQ2+ Pride Flag.

Community members who would like to participate in the Pride Public Art project are invited to join artist Steve Baylis in the following upcoming free workshops. Space is limited; registration is required through experienceit.ca: 

• Friday, August 23 from 5-7:30pm (use barcode #38984)
• Saturday, August 24 from 1-3:30pm (use barcode #38985)

The Pride Public Art Launch event is generously supported by Long & McQuade in Coquitlam and Opus Art Supplies. Visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/pride for more details.

For more information, contact Robi Smith, Arts & Culture Coordinator, by phone at 604.927.8443 or by email at smithr@portcoquitlam.ca.

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MEDIA CONTACTS

Pardeep Purewal
Manager of Communications & Admin Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5335 Cel 604.218.0533
Email purewalp@portcoquitlam.ca