Iconic Indigenous mural blocked by Calgary development's brick wall draws fire

AnIndigenous mural on Calgary's17th Avenue has beencovered up by a new development something theartist behind itsays isdisappointing, especially since he was not consulted or notified.

A brick wall recently went up over most ofthe muralcreated in 2018 by Kalum Teke Dan, and it happenedthe same week thatCanada marked its National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

He says he spent seven days painting the mural for Beltline Urban Murals Project (BUMP), andit's his favourite work.

Called Sunset Song, Dan says the artworkrepresents moving forward and rebuilding.

"It's bad timing for sure it being a big time for truth and reconciliation, and for this to be happening at this time," Dan said.

"I'm already getting a lot of calls from not just the people in the neighborhoodbut people everywhere saying that they're pretty upset," he added.

Dexter Bruneau, BUMP'sexecutive director, says the organization has an understanding that painting murals on walls is inherently temporary.

"That said, it's obviously disappointing to see such a beautiful and iconic mural being one of the first to be covered in this way," he said.

BUMP plans to workwith Dan on anopportunity to recreate the mural on a new building next year.

"Ithink there could have been some more consideration here especially during this sensitive time. Ithink it's insensitive.Ithink it's rude," said Theodora Warriorfrom Piikani Nation,who says she loved the mural.

"It's pride.It's power.It's such a respectful piece of art. Such a visual of who we are inside, and how beautiful we are. It captured everything. I love walking down this street and seeing it with my kids, sharing that and being proud to see it there."

City says work temporarily stopped

A City of Calgary spokesperson said murals are not protected from construction on adjacent sites, which comes afterthe city approved a development permit to the landowner next to the mural's location.

"There is currently a temporary stop work notice on this site and an investigation is ongoing.Once that is resolved, construction may proceed as planned," the spokesperson said.

"The timing of construction on the neighbouring parcel ...is truly unfortunate following the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It's a reminder of the importance of Indigenous artwork in Calgary."