Alberta Artist Gives Back to Local Food Banks

July 20, 2017   |  

YYC Calgary International Airport hosts Artwork to Drive Donations 

(Calgary, AB) - The Calgary Airport Authority announced today that it will host a unique art piece in its new International Terminal at YYC Calgary International Airport over the next couple of months. Titled ‘Canadian Pride’ by artist Ted Flower, the piece was unveiled in a partnership with the Government of Alberta, the Calgary Stampeders, Purolator and ATB Financial, in support of the Calgary Food Bank.

At one time in his life, Alberta Artist Ted Flower relied upon the local food bank. This support gave him the inspiration to use his artistic talents and create a piece in honour of Canada’s 150th birthday. Having benefited greatly from the charitable support he received, he decided to donate the piece to raise funds for local food banks in Alberta. In learning about Ted’s story and initiative, The Honourable Lois E. Mitchell, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, became a significant driver in bringing Ted’s dream to life.

Canadian Pride was revealed to the public today in its new home at YYC and will greet passengers and visitors to the airport from around the world. Guests will also have the opportunity to make contributions to the initiative. After the piece concludes its visit at YYC it will make the trip to Ottawa for its final stop - the Grey Cup.

“In its new home here at YYC, this artwork will be enjoyed by thousands of travellers, guests and employees that come through our airport each day,” said Bob Sartor, President and CEO of The Calgary Airport Authority. “As one of Canada’s busiest airports, we play a significant role in making our community a better place to live, work and play, which is why we are happy to be a part of today’s initiative.”

To kick off today’s fundraising, the Calgary Stampeders and ATB Financial donated funds of $5,000 respectively. And this Saturday, as partners in the Purolator Tackle Hunger Program, the Calgary Stampeders will also be collecting food for the Calgary Food Bank at their game against the Saskatchewan Rough Riders.

Canadian Pride can be found on display in the International Terminal at YYC in the Departures Check-in Hall prior to going through security. Donation bins are on site for those visitors and travellers who would like to donate to the food bank.

Photo of the Canadian Pride ceremony at YYC
From left to right: Her Honour, The Honourable Lois E. Mitchell, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta; Ted Flower, Artist; 

James McAra, President and CEO of the Calgary Food Bank; Bob Sartor, President and CEO of The Calgary Airport Authority. 

ABOUT THE CALGARY AIRPORT AUTHORITY

The Calgary Airport Authority is a not-for-profit, non-share capital organization, incorporated under the Alberta Regional Airports Authorities Act, and is responsible for the safe, secure and efficient management of the YYC Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Springbank Airport (YBW) under long-term lease from the Government of Canada. YYC's mandate is to advance economic and community development by providing improved airline and transportation services for the benefit of the public. The Authority has invested over $4 billion into the continued development of YYC, opening Canada's longest runway in 2014 and a new International Terminal in 2016. YYC is a key economic driver for Calgary and Alberta, generating more than $8 billion in economic activity annually and creating 48,000 jobs.

 

For more information contact:

Media Relations

The Calgary Airport Authority

P: 403 735 5899

media@yyc.com                                                             -30-