News

WELLAND, ON – April 8, 2013 – More than Easter Eggs were being painted at the annual Welland Volunteer Fire Company #1 Easter Egg Hunt this past Saturday. Using swirls of paint, renowned Canadian sports artist David Arrigo continues his quest to capture and celebrate the culture and sporting history of the Toronto 2015 Pan Am Games. Arrigo is traveling to the various host communities for the Fames to complete a series of legacy murals. As part of the Pan Am Mural Experience presented by CIBC, Arrigo was at the Easter Egg Hunt on Merritt Island painting the City of Welland's legacy mural. The 4' painting will reflect Welland's distinct character and landmarks, as well as the sprint canoe that will take place as part of the Pan American Games to be held in Welland in 2015.
Mayor Sharpe even added a few strokes of paint to the project, saying, “As Welland’s Mayor, I was thrilled to join David Arrigo on Merritt Island and see the mural take shape. Kids and adults alike enjoyed the activities provided by the TO2015 Community Tour as part of a very successful annual Easter Egg Hunt hosted by Welland Volunteer Fire Company Number 1.”
As group after group of onlookers stopped to watch, Arrigo explained, “This mural is an exciting legacy piece for Welland as it shows the transition from old to new and showcases the world-class canal. It celebrates the Pan Am Games as well as the opening of the new flatwater centre.” Once completed, the mural will be a permanent part of the new Welland International Flatwater Centre, which will be known as the Welland Pan Am Flatwater Centre during the 2015 Games, host venue for the Canoe/Kayak Sprints.

Mayor Sharpe gets some tips from renowned Canadian sports artist David Arrigo before adding his touch to the mural – an exciting legacy piece that celebrates the culture and history of Welland.