Port Coquitlam, BC - SEPTEMBER 13, 2024...The City of Port Coquitlam invites residents and visitors to experience the Donald Storywalk, a unique literary display that brings love to life in all its forms.
Situated between Elks Park and Wilson Avenue, the Tiny Love Stories is the fourth edition of the Donald Storywalk featuring eight heartwarming stories from the 2024 May Days Flash Fiction contest. All penned by local residents and beautifully illustrated by B.C. artist Kari Rust. This project is a collaborative effort by the City, Terry Fox Library, and the Port Coquitlam Business Improvement Association, aimed at promoting literacy and enhancing the downtown and outdoor spaces.
"I am excited to see the Donald Storywalk come to life once again in such a meaningful way, highlighting local talent and adding a special touch to our downtown area." said Mayor Brad West. "This project not only promotes literacy but also celebrates the diversity of stories that exist within our community."
The selected stories are:
- A Starry Love Story by Mithila Karnik
- Zoomie Loves Adventure! by Denise Chau
- Mr. Ferreira's Sunflowers by Elissa Cook
- Enrique & the Birds by Carolina Chavarriaga
- The Time Capsule by Jennifer Pownall
- An Ordinary Woman by Kateryna Shumovska
- Thank You Gramma by Ashleigh & Hailey Waters
- Holding Up Strong by Allison Fontana
"The Tiny Love Stories contest gave our residents a wonderful opportunity to express their creativity and share love in its many forms." said Cllr. McCurrach, council designate for arts, culture and heritage and environment. "It's great to see the Terry Fox Library and the Business Improvement Association come together for this initiative, making literature more accessible and engaging for all ages."
The eight panels have been designed with accessibility in mind, including colour and font choices, and links to an audio recording of the story at portcoquitlam.ca/storywalk.
The installation of the new Donald Storywalk dovetails with this year's Port Coquitlam's Culture Days activities. Running from Sept. 20 to Oct. 13, the annual celebration of arts and culture includes a variety of free activities, including art exhibitions and demos, performances, hands-on activities and more. More information can be found at portcoquitlam.ca/culturedays.
To listen to an audio recording of the stories and for more information, visit portcoquitlam.ca/storywalk.
About the Illustrator
Kari Rust, a renowned B.C. artist, author, and animator, has illustrated each panel with creativity and attention to detail, perfectly capturing the emotion of each story. Known for her work in children's literature and animation, Kari brings each love story to life with a unique artistic touch. Learn more about her work at karirust.com.
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Media Contact
Ximena Ibacache
Manager of Communications & Administrative Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5499
Email [email protected]