The air downtown has been crackling with playoff energy these days, and now Edmontonians have a stunning new mural to celebrate our beloved Oilers as they continue their Stanley Cup journey.
Walking down Jasper Avenue yesterday afternoon, I couldn’t miss the vibrant splash of orange and blue that’s transformed the exterior wall of Kelly’s Pub. The 20-foot mural depicts our hockey heroes in an artistic style that captures both the grit and grace of this remarkable playoff run.
“We wanted to create something that brings the community together,” explains Mark Davidson, owner of Kelly’s Pub, as we chat beneath the fresh artwork. “The energy in Edmonton during playoffs is unlike anything else, and we wanted to contribute to that spirit in a lasting way.”
The mural, completed just days ago, features stylized portraits of Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evan Bouchard against a backdrop of Edmonton’s skyline. What struck me most was how the artist incorporated subtle nods to Oilers history – glimpses of the five Stanley Cups and silhouettes of legendary players from years past.
Local artist Samantha Reynolds spent nearly two weeks completing the massive piece, often working late into the evening to meet the tight deadline before Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final.
“I’ve been an Oilers fan since I was a kid,” Reynolds tells me, paint still fresh on her hands. “Creating something that celebrates not just the team but what they mean to Edmonton – that’s been an incredible honor.”
The timing couldn’t be better. As our city prepares for the first Stanley Cup Final appearance since 2006, the mural has quickly become a popular spot for photos and gatherings. Throughout my hour at the site, at least two dozen people stopped to admire the artwork and snap pictures.
“This is exactly what downtown needs,” says Miguel Santos, who works nearby at an accounting firm. “More color, more community pride, more reasons for people to walk around and feel connected to something bigger.”
The mural project received support from the Downtown Business Association, which has been actively promoting initiatives to bring vibrancy back to the core as we continue pandemic recovery efforts.
“Public art that celebrates our shared passions helps transform urban spaces into places people want to be,” explains Patricia Gonzales, community engagement coordinator with the DBA. “The timing with the Oilers’ playoff run makes this particularly special.”
The project hasn’t been without challenges. Davidson mentions the mural required city permits and careful planning to ensure it met all requirements while maximizing visibility from both Jasper Avenue and the adjacent alleyway.
“Worth every bit of red tape,” Davidson laughs. “The response has been tremendous for business, sure, but more importantly, you can feel how it lifts people’s spirits when they walk by.”
What makes this mural different from others downtown is its interactive element. Reynolds designed a section where fans can sign their names and leave messages of support for the team. Already, hundreds of signatures cover the designated area, creating a time capsule of this playoff moment.
Among those signatures yesterday was Mayor Amarjeet Sohi‘s, who stopped by to show his support. “This mural represents Edmonton’s heart and soul right now,” he noted during his brief visit. “It’s wonderful to see local businesses and artists coming together to celebrate our city’s journey.”
For lifelong fans like 68-year-old Margaret Wilson, who I met taking photos to send to her grandchildren in Calgary, the mural represents something deeply emotional. “I remember all five Cup wins,” she tells me, eyes bright with memory. “This team feels special in that same way. Having this artwork downtown makes it feel like the whole city is part of something historic.”
The mural has quickly become part of the pre-game ritual for many fans heading to Rogers Place or nearby watch parties. Groups gather, touch the painted Stanley Cup for luck, and add their names to the growing collection of supporters.
As Edmonton continues embracing this playoff journey, the mural stands as a colorful reminder of how sports can transform a city’s energy. More than just paint on brick, it’s become a gathering place, a photo opportunity, and a symbol of collective hope.
“We’re already planning a celebration here when they win the Cup,” Davidson shares with unwavering confidence. “This wall will be the backdrop to a moment this city has been waiting for.”
Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or simply appreciate vibrant public art, the new Oilers mural at Kelly’s Pub offers something worth experiencing as our city continues riding this wave of orange and blue enthusiasm.
The mural is located at Kelly’s Pub on Jasper Avenue and 104 Street and is accessible to view at any time.
