A colourful new mural is bringing energy, visibility, and colour to The Dock+ facility on Harbour Rd. — thanks to a collaborative project between the Port Alberni Port Authority (PAPA) and the Community Arts Council of the Alberni Valley (CAC).
Painted on the commercial kitchen doors of The Dock+, the mural serves as a vibrant community placemaking, wayfinding, and marketing tool for the growing number of businesses and visitors using the BC Food Hub Network facility.
“The Dock+ is home to some amazing local food entrepreneurs, and we wanted to bring more awareness to the magic that happens behind those doors,” says Carmela Ferro, Manager of Marketing, Communications and PR for the Port Alberni Port Authority. “People often get lost when they come for a tour or drop off a delivery for our kitchen members, so this mural acts as a colourful and creative signpost—and a wonderful way to celebrate what happens inside.”
Designed in collaboration with local artist Josée Baillargeon the mural is not just a piece of public art—it’s a community-building initiative. The CAC helped coordinate a call for young artists to participate in sketching and painting sections of the mural, gaining mentorship and hands-on experience.
“As an artist and art educator, this project was right up my alley.” says Baillargeon, “I love sharing what I know and encouraging creativity in others. Mentoring young artists is a great way to share my passion and bring joy and colour to the valley.”
A few young local artists responded to the call, including Jacqueline Walker, Helio Schmor, and Julia Oscarson, and her 8-year-old daughter.
“The Arts Council and Port Authority have worked together before, and we were thrilled to co-develop this project,” explains CAC’s Arts Administrator, Angela Skaley, “It’s a great example of how partnerships can make art accessible and meaningful—especially for young, emerging artists.”
Young artist Helio Schmor shares why she wanted to participate in the opportunity, “I’ve always loved painting and wanted to give back to the community, now every time I pass here, I can say, hey, I painted that mural, and I feel like it’s just a nice pop of color for the town.”
The mural’s theme celebrates local food and Port Alberni’s creative economy. The imagery was developed collaboratively between Ferro, Skaley and Baillargeon, incorporating feedback and ideas to ensure the final result reflected the vision and the community.
With sunshine, teamwork, and plenty of paint, the colourful weekend of mural painting lit up Harbour Road literally and emotionally. “We’re so grateful to everyone who cheered us on whether they were walking, biking or driving by.” says Ferro, “The kind words, waves, and a box of donuts from a community member made the experience overwhelmingly positive all around. It’s been a wonderful way to support our community, our businesses, and make living, working, and playing along the Alberni waterfront even more fun.”
The CAC hopes it’s just the beginning of more murals in Port Alberni, “We want to make this a recurring tradition in the Alberni Valley,” says Skaley. “Art, business, community—it all comes together here. “
To learn more about The Dock+ or to book a tour, visit www.thedockplus.ca or follow @TheDockPlus on social media.
Photo: Roland Smith – May 23, 2025
Media Contacts
Port Alberni Port Authority
[email protected]
Community Arts Council of the Alberni Valley
[email protected]
