Corporate

Region-Wide Invitation to Participate in Pop-Up Photography Tour Promoting Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo

Public Art Wood Buffalo and Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism (FMWBEDT) are partnering to showcase the incredible and diverse everyday life of people in the region. Well-known and respected artists Crystal Mercredi and Lucas Seaward will tour from Fort Fitzgerald to Conklin this August to capture the unique landscapes, peoples and cultures in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo.

Pop up tour image

“This partnership aims to leverage public art in its ability to strengthen the connection between people and the place they share,” said Sharon Heading, Chair of the Public Art Wood Buffalo Committee. “Utilizing multiple platforms — photography, videography and graphic design — participants can visualize everyday life, broadening our understanding of the region and of each other.”

The photos and videos captured during the region-wide Pop-Up Photography Tour will become a part of the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo place brand and used on a larger scale to promote the region. A compilation of the images will also be used to create a dynamic mural at Kiyām Community Park, reflective of our connected communities.

“We are inviting the people of Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo to be involved in sharing who we are as a place. This is you, your family, your pets, and the parts of your life that connect you to the region,” said Kevin Weidlich, President & CEO of FMWBEDT. “Whether it’s fishing at your favourite local lake, spending time as a family at a community park, or exploring the land or trails—authentically showcasing everyday life here will build a stronger reputation for Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo.”

“This is an incredible opportunity to show that Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo is one of the best places to raise a family with rich cultures and beautiful communities,” said Karla Buffalo, CEO of the Athabasca Tribal Council.

In the month of August, every community will have an opportunity to participate in the Pop-Up Photography Tour. For those interested in sharing more about how their life connects them to the region, register to participate in everyday life videos. Learn more at participate.rmwb.ca/popupphototour.

“I am passionate about every corner of this region and cannot wait to connect with the beautiful communities, people and families that live here,” said Crystal Mercredi, award-winning photographer and owner of Life & Portraits. “Before starting my photography business, I taught in Fort McKay and Fort Chipewyan and love that this initiative spans across all of the rural communities.”

Mentorship opportunities

Local photographers and videographers living in rural communities can register to learn from Crystal and Lucas during their local visit.