A culture of constant improvement at The City of Calgary.: TransitStory

TransitStory, created by artist (and former Calgarian) Jill Anholt and installed outside the 7 Ave. and Centre St. LRT platform in May 2012, showcases 30 sculptures of people, fabricated from steel, artfully painted and lit from below. The "crowd" appears to share a brief moment with the thousands of other commuters embarking and disembarking at the busy station.

This installation is an example of Transforming Government due to its innovative use of public art to enhance this public space and serve a function beyond improved aesthetics. While the project definitely contributes to the on-going 7 Avenue Refurbishment by enriching and enlivening the ridership and pedestrian experience, it also adds to the sense of safety and security of the area. Citizen orientation was also a key contributing factor in that the artist's stated intent was to "intrigue passers-by, drawing them to look closer at the work itself and by extension, explore and discover connections and relationships embodied in the site."

The artwork was made possible through the Public Art Policy and the Transportation department.

For more information about this project and the Public Art Program, visit www.calgary.ca/publicart.

View full project details

What is Transforming Government?

Government exists to serve citizens. Every day, citizens are touched by The City of Calgary and the services it offers. Transforming Government is a culture of constant improvement at The City of Calgary — improvement that makes life better for all citizens.

In 2011, Mayor Naheed Nenshi and City Council unanimously agreed to embrace and reinforce this approach to constant improvement — Transforming Government is a way to do just that. So, when you see the Transforming Government stamp on something, you know it is part of something that makes Calgary even better.

A public work, an initiative, project, program or plan marked with Transforming Government reflects one or more of the following principles:

Transparency provides a clear view of exactly what’s going on “behind the scenes”, so citizens can understand why a project or service exists.

Accountability is the clear demonstration of how and why The City has done something, and that The City and Council accept responsibility for the decision, program or plan.

Civic Engagement is a commitment to bring together citizens, organizations, and City employees in the planning and development of our great city.

Innovation describes new ideas, services, or approaches that make living and working in Calgary even better.

Citizen Orientation ensures that a program, project or service is designed with customers or citizens in mind.

Sustainability describes long-term thinking that makes for a healthy community, environment, and economy, now and in the future.

TransitStory

A culture of constant improvement at The City of Calgary.

What is Transforming Government?

Public Spaces

Customer Service

Transportation

Environmental