The City of Regina acknowledges we are on the traditional lands of the Treaty 4 Territory, a Treaty signed with 35 First Nations across Southern Saskatchewan and parts of Alberta and Manitoba, and the original lands of the Cree, Saulteaux, Dakota, Nakota, Lakota, and the homeland of the Métis. The City of Regina owes its strength and vibrancy to these lands and the diverse Indigenous Peoples whose ancestors’ footsteps have marked this territory, as well as settlers from around the world who continue to be welcomed here and call Regina home.

The City of Regina is looking to receive proposals for an art installation within the newly developed community of The Towns in southeast Regina.

Project Background

In Saskatchewan, there is a distinct relationship between the railways and small communities. The railways relied on towns that settled along its path for services, bringing economic opportunities and growth to adjacent communities. The railroad was a vital mode of transportation and connection in the Prairies, bringing with it new immigrants and helping to create the diverse cultural community that resides in Saskatchewan today. However, the development of railways also created a legacy of harm. As lands were cleared, Indigenous life was disrupted and changed forever through displacement. Railways were also used to transport Canadians labelled “enemy aliens” during both world wars, and Chinese labourers working for the railroad experienced horrendous working conditions, exploitation, and discrimination. Later, as fewer passengers chose to travel by train, railways were abandoned, causing hardship for communities that relied on them. Horizon Station Park is named after a former village in southern Saskatchewan that was impacted by the railway abandonment. This park endeavours to acknowledge the impacts of the railways in Saskatchewan, providing an opportunity to tell the story of the rise and fall of train culture and its legacies in Saskatchewan.

The Artwork

The City of Regina invites practicing artists to submit proposals for the creation of a new, original public artwork exploring the theme of railways in Saskatchewan, for installation in Horizon Station Park, Regina.

The intention of this commission is to respond to and explore the complex histories relating to the development and legacies of Saskatchewan’s railroads. In particular, the artwork should reflect on the underrepresented stories of the railways and acknowledge difficult truths related to the collision of cultures it contributed to.

The objective of the Horizon Station Park is to provide year-round active recreation with an outdoor skating rink, dog park, basketball nets, skating and walking loop, train themed playground and more. The artwork should elevate the space in the winter as well as during the warmer seasons. Ideally, it will incorporate lighting to provide a safe and inviting area within the park in the evening and throughout the winter.

This call is for Canada artists. Please see the commission document for full project information and application instructions.