Thank you to everyone who participated and helped create the city’s newest public art project, Pride Public Art, led by artist, Steve Baylis.
This project is an artist-led community engagement project that promotes diversity by recognizing and celebrating Port Coquitlam’s LGBTQ2+ community. Steve Baylis was selected to create and lead the project following a formal request for proposals issued in consultation with the LGBTQ2+ community.
The Pride Public Art installation wraps this gathering space with the Pride Flag and the Transgender Flag. The patterned tiles embody the idea of having the confidence to be different, to stand out. This area is a place where members of the LGBTQ2+ community are welcomed and celebrated. This project reflects the City of Port Coquitlam’s continued efforts to embrace all members of the community. The artwork was commissioned in 2019 by the City of Port Coquitlam, designed by Steve Baylis and created in collaboration with the Port Coquitlam community.
About the Artist:
Born in Port Coquitlam, Baylis is an internationally recognized visual artist whose work has been exhibited in many local and international galleries and art publications. He studied art and design at Kwantlen University and continued his training at Capilano University. Baylis combines a range of unique influences with his own driven spiritual inquiry to create art that connects people.
The launch of the Pride Public Art installation took place on August 2, 2019 in Leigh Square with entertainment headlined by Lower Mainland performers Kimmortal and Parlour Panther.
The launch event coincided with Pride weekend and was an opportunity to celebrate Port Coquitlam’s LGBTQ2+ community. In addition to the launch event, Port Coquitlam celebrated Pride by lighting City Hall at night in the colours of the LGBTQ2+ Pride Flag and the Transgender Pride Flag.
Lesley Perrie
Public Art & Community Engagement Specialist
Tel 604.927.8442
Email perriel@portcoquitlam.ca
