Rutland artist brings community story to life through new transit exchange murals

Rutland Transit Exchange, a place built to move people through the city is becoming a place that also tells the story of the community around it.

The transit exchange was upgraded earlier this year to improve transit capacity, accessibility, safety and comfort for riders. Now, local artist Jolene Mackie is helping add another layer to the space through six mural panels that celebrate the people, places and unique identity of Rutland.

A Rutland story told by one of its own

Raised in Rutland and a graduate of Rutland Senior Secondary School, Mackie brings a deep personal connection to the project. Her design celebrates Rutland as the vibrant and diverse community it is today.

"I am a Rutland kid at heart," says Mackie. "Over the past couple of decades, I have seen Rutland develop from what felt like a sleepy residential part of town, to an area that spans the gamut from agricultural zones, community centres and natural parks, to bustling urban neighbourhoods." 

Following a call for artists, Mackie was selected to create six mural panels that celebrate the neighbourhood she has called home for much of her life.

"It's a real privilege and honour to try to encapsulate the rich diversity of this part of town," says Mackie. "Using vibrant colours that catch the eye, viewers will recognize local flora and fauna, architecture, storefronts, farms, parks and the people who call this place home."

Honouring community and creating connection

Together, the murals create a visual journey through the community, highlighting familiar landmarks, neighbourhood gathering spaces and natural landscapes. For transit riders and visitors, the artwork offers a chance to experience Rutland through the eyes of an artist who has watched the community grow and evolve.

The project is also creating opportunities for community members to connect with the artist and her work as it takes shape. Mackie is expected to be on site painting most weekday mornings through mid-August, offering passersby a chance to see the creative process firsthand and watch the murals emerge panel by panel.

Beautifying public spaces 

Projects like this highlight how art can help strengthen a sense of belonging in the places we share. Whether displayed in parks, civic buildings, streetscapes or transit facilities, art helps tell local stories, spark conversation and celebrate the unique character of Kelowna's neighbourhoods.

Mackie's project is one example of how local artists are helping shape Kelowna's cultural landscape. Through artist residencies, grants, community art projects and creative youth programs, the City supports artists at different stages of their creative journey while creating opportunities for residents to experience arts and culture in everyday spaces. This approach helps build a vibrant, connected and creative city.

Explore opportunities for artists

For artists looking to take the next step in their creative journey, the City offers a range of opportunities, from paid youth programs and community grants to artist residencies and civic projects. These programs provide funding, professional development and opportunities to share creative work with the community.

Artists interested in future opportunities can explore grants, residencies, paid projects and programs through the City's Artist Opportunities hub.

As Kelowna continues to invest in the spaces that connect people and neighbourhoods, projects like the Rutland Transit Exchange murals demonstrate how art can add meaning to everyday places. Beyond helping people get where they're going, these spaces can celebrate local identity, share community stories and create a stronger sense of connection.

Inspired by Jolene's story? Learn more about grants, residencies and artist opportunities at kelowna.ca/artistopportunities.