Andrew Robertson Brings a New Mural to Gull Lake
- 11 hours ago
- 2 min read
A striking new black‑and‑white mural is coming to life on the north wall of Campbell’s Accommodations Fourplex, along Rutland Avenue and 2nd Street—a well‑traveled stretch of Highway 37 as it moves through Gull Lake. Local artist Andrew Robertson—known across southwest Saskatchewan for his monochromatic murals and large‑scale public art—began painting this week and is already more than halfway through. The piece features a young girl surrounded by sweeping black‑and‑white florals, with the final details still to come.
Why Gull Lake?
Robertson said the wall immediately stood out as a place where a mural could make an impact. “This area is highly trafficked… people travel through here every day,” he said. “Gull Lake and Maple Creek are the two entrances to southwest Saskatchewan, so I thought I’d create something people would enjoy and get a good vibe from as they drive through.”
The meaning behind the design
The mural draws on the idea of “stop and smell the flowers,” encouraging people to slow down and reconnect with the natural world. “When people stop, they look at the grass, the flowers, the bugs, the plants, the animals… or when they stop and talk to each other and enjoy things that are naturally created,” Robertson said. “It’s a stressful time in the world right now. I wanted something that reminds people to step back and appreciate what’s around them.”
With that message taking shape on the wall, the mural is expected to be completed next week as the final flowers and grass are added.
A gift to the community
This is Robertson’s first mural of the year, made possible by the warmer weather. “I love painting… I can’t get enough of it,” he said. “Putting something up like this for Gull Lake is a pleasure.” The mural is a gift to the community—created for residents, visitors, and anyone passing through town. Those wishing to support his work can reach him through his Facebook page, Robertson Visual Arts.
Southwest Mural Festival
Robertson also organizes the Southwest Mural Festival, returning July 15–19, 2026. The upcoming festival includes projects such as the Shaunavon Water Tower and several new murals. Interest has surged: last year saw just over 80 applications, while this year more than 600 artists from over 50 countries applied for a chance to paint in the southwest. Robertson curates the festival, selecting three artists whose work best fits the community and the available spaces.
Festival information is available at swmuralfest.com, and Robertson’s work can be followed on Facebook and Instagram under Robertson Visual Arts.
A message for passersby
As the mural nears completion, Robertson hopes it inspires people to pause and reflect. “If you drive by and see the mural, take it as a sign to go talk to somebody, to enjoy nature, and to take your mind off the negativity that’s out there,” he said. “Enjoy one‑on‑one conversations and look on the bright side.”
Residents and travellers are encouraged to stop by, take in the new artwork, and enjoy a moment of calm in the heart of Gull Lake.
Gull Lake Events
Links:
Website: swmuralfest.com
Facebook: Robertson Visual Arts
Instagram: Robertson Visual Arts
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