6 Oct

Whistler Museum Gets a Facelift

A common definition of “artistry” is the ability to create beauty where it was previously absent. By this measure, in our latest partnership the Whistler Museum has found an artist of the highest order.

Over the last week the east wall of the Museum building has been beautifully remade as a massive mural by talented local spray-paint artist Kris “KUPS” Kupskay. The sixty-foot long piece pays homage to our community’s heritage with an eye-catching scene that features iconic local figures such as Myrtle Philip, Teddy the Bear, the PGE Railway, the original Creekside Gondola, and of course, plenty of breathtaking Coast Mountain scenery.

The scene begins to take shape.

Prior to its revival, the long, irregular-shaped wall offered an awkward “canvas.” Drawing from his background in graffiti, where working with unconventional spaces like inner-city alleyways and far-raging freight train cars is the norm, KUPS saw opportunity where others might be dissuaded. The result is a bold design that makes creative use of the wall. The dynamic work flows naturally across the whole space and even transforms a pre-existing A/C shed into a makeshift train station.

KUPS at work.

KUPS’ enthusiasm for the task was unmistakable, keeping museum staff and curious onlookers entertained throughout. Working energetically, KUPS brought his vision to life in a matter of days. The guy simply loves to create, and it shows in his work.

Hangin’ with Myrtle and Teddy.

The mural was made possible through funding from the RMOW’s Village Enhancement funds, and is part of ongoing efforts to rejuvenate the vacant lot created by the dismantling of the former museum building. In addition to KUPS’ artwork, the wall now features a beautiful new ten-foot long “Whistler Museum” sign as well, made by Whistler’s Cutting Edge Signs.

KUPS in front of the finished work.