Bloomberg Philanthropies Art Grant
Step into a world of colour where York Street West in the
ByWard Market becomes an urban art playground
York Street West Will Become a Vibrant Canvas
York Street West in the ByWard Market District is set to be transformed into a bold, visually striking asphalt mural thanks to support from the Bloomberg Philanthropies Asphalt Art Initiative. This project will bring new colour, energy, and creativity to one of the district’s most prominent corridors, turning it into a vibrant urban canvas.
The Call for Expressions of Interest has now closed, and the BMDA is reviewing submissions. The successful artist or creative team will be announced in early April, with installation planned for 2026 and the mural remaining in place through 2028.
This initiative marks an exciting step forward in enhancing public space and expanding the district’s commitment to accessible, impactful art.
Art That Moves the city—Safely and Beautifully
The York Street West asphalt mural will do more than delight the eyes—it will help shape the way people experience the street. By integrating visually striking, site-specific elements, the artwork will give the area a unique identity and create an engaging, vibrant public space for the community.
Public asphalt art also enhances safety: a 2022 Bloomberg Philanthropies study found it can reduce pedestrian and cyclist collisions by 50% and increase drivers yielding to pedestrians by 27%. The mural should be both conceptually bold and sensitive to place, reflecting the character of the neighbourhood and the future vision for Ottawa, while supporting the daily flow of pedestrians and vehicles.
Applications are now closed. Thank you to everyone who submitted.
“Art is not a thing; it is a way” — Elbert Hubbard
Q&A: Artist Inquiries – Bloomberg Asphalt Art Project (York Street)
Is it possible for artists to seek external sponsorships to supplement or enhance their project budget (e.g., Wallack’s)?
We are currently awaiting confirmation from Bloomberg Philanthropies regarding whether external sponsorships will be permitted. An update will be provided once clarification is received.
Will the selected artist have opportunities to consult or workshop ideas with the technical review team during the process?
We are still awaiting confirmation on the level of direct consultation available during the technical review process. Further details will be shared once finalized.
Can the City of Ottawa provide vehicle-collision statistics for York Street, specifically between Sussex Drive and ByWard Market Square?
We have requested this information and are awaiting a response.
Are there key local community members helping bridge the gap between municipal leadership and the broader community?
Several groups are involved in this project, including the ByWard Market Public Realm Office, the ByWard Market District Authority, the City of Ottawa Public Art Program, and the Ottawa Art Gallery.
Will the groups mentioned above handle procurement of materials?
No. As outlined in the Expression of Interest, procurement of all materials is the responsibility of the artist or artist group. The grant funding covers design, fabrication, transportation, and installation of the artwork.
Are there any key city leaders involved in permitting (easing permit requirements, street-closure coordination, regulatory considerations, letters of support, etc.)?
The ByWard Market District Authority will act as the primary permitting liaison with the City of Ottawa to ensure a smooth and coordinated process.
What support will partners (referenced above) provide during the project?
The BMDA will clean the site, provide limited onsite storage, and ensure access to water through nearby public fountains. Artists will also have access to the BMDA office space for breaks and water refills.
Are testing grounds available for product-design and material testing?
A designated section of the project area may be used for testing materials, with the understanding that it will be painted over during final installation. The technical review process will also provide guidance on materials and implementation considerations.
Is there a vendor or specialized contractor identified who can supply durable stencils or runway-grade thermoplastics? Sourcing specialized materials or fabrication services will remain the responsibility of the artist. However, shortlisted artists will participate in a technical review, during which material considerations and potential sources may be discussed or advised on.
Will project partners provide access to additional expertise—such as City planners, economic development staff, cycling groups, or academic contacts?
We are awaiting confirmation regarding what additional expertise or resources may be available.
Is there guidance on disseminating petitions to nearby residents and businesses adjacent to the mural site?
The BMDA will handle all communications with nearby businesses. Broader public consultation will take place during Phase 2, as outlined in the Expression of Interest.
Is there guidance on complying with Ottawa’s by-laws regarding bike-lane implementation, should it be part of the design?
The City of Ottawa project lead can provide guidance on applicable by-laws and requirements.
Our design may reach up to 5,000 sq. ft. Are we permitted to paint drivable areas, crosswalks, sidewalks, parking spots, platforms, or the area surrounding the OTTAWA sign?
We are awaiting confirmation on which surfaces will be eligible for treatment within the project scope. Exact details will be released to the shortlisted artists in Phase 2.
Will vehicles be operating in the area during the mural installation? What about winter months?
The initial installation must be completed in May 2026 and will remain in place through November 2026. The artwork will weather over the winter, and the artist may refresh, update, or replace the design in 2027. Installation areas will be safely sectioned off from vehicles during active work.
Can the mural incorporate streetscape elements such as seating, planters, barriers, delineators, or wayfinding tools to support pedestrian safety?
We are awaiting guidance on whether streetscape elements may be incorporated into the project.
The City of Ottawa is supporting this effort. Do we have the support of the Mayor or the Night Mayor?
Yes. This initiative is supported through the City of Ottawa’s Public Art Program, the Strategic Initiatives Department and the ByWard Public Realm Plan Office.
Can you provide more detailed maps for our Digital Design Team?
Phase 1 does not require a design submission. Detailed mapping will be provided to artists selected to move forward to Phase 2, who will be compensated for their design work.
I can see that the written components of the expression have to be in one PDF. Should mine and my partner's artist CV's be sent as separate files, or as part of the letter of interest and sample works? It is perfectly acceptable to send each artist's CV in separate files.