Two new public arts projects for Newton
Published 12:45 pm Monday, July 6, 2026
Newton will be home to two new public art projects – an eagle sculpture and a mural – that were recently approved by Surrey council.
Artist Jessie Sohpal will be paid $195,000 for a sculpture at the roundabout at 132 Street and 60 Avenue. A panel selected Sohal’s proposal after reviewed 79 expressions of interest and six concept proposals.
The work will be called Igor Takes Flight, inspired by an eagle that was rehabilitated at the Surrey Zoo, operated by the Galicz family from 1967 to 1977.
Surrey’s general manager of parks, recreation and culture Laurie Cavan noted that the Vancouver-based interdisciplinary artist learned through archival research and interviewing the Galicz family about Igor.
The bird “became a beloved figure in the community, drawing curiosity and fostering connection. He was brought into schools and travelled across North America, extending his presence far beyond Newton and the zoo,” Cavan noted.
”The sculpture captures the moment of Igor rising into the sky. Inspired by his rehabilitation journey, the form reflects lift, release, and ascent, while connecting Newton residents to an aspect of local heritage.”
Surrey council approved the contract on June 29.
Councillor Harry Bains is a fan.
“Admittedly I do not always understand art but this a piece I really like – it tells a story about a zoo, a long-lost zoo that Surrey once had, it tells a story of Igor the eagle that was taken all across North America; it really gets a conversation going about Surrey’s past and Surrey’s history so I’m really happy to see this one I think a lot of thought went into it and the local heritage of the area directly adjacent to the roundabout,” Bains said.
Councillor Bob Bose echoed that. “I’m by no means an arty but when I saw this it struck me,” he said. “It’s an absolutely beautiful piece of public art and it will really improve the aesthetics of the neighbourhood.”
Mayor Brenda Locke noted that depending on which direction motorists head through the roundabout they will see “different flight, and so Igor really was taking flight in Newton, so it’s a very nice piece of art and I hope other people go and see it. Look at it from all angles because it’s very cool it shifts. Just keep driving around the roundabout, it’ll be great.”
Councillor Mandeep Nagra said he’ll see the sculpture every day “and it beautiful.”
On June 29 council also approved a $40,000 contract for artist Rory Doyle to do a new public art mural at the Newton Seniors Centre.
“I know the Newton Seniors Centre is definitely in need of new art, it’s been looking a little dated so this is very welcome,” Councillor Pardeep Kooner said. “And it’s also great to know that the seniors actually participated in deciding what was going to end up on the wall so I know they’re also looking forward to this art and getting it cleaned up a little bit from what it looks like now.”
Cavan noted that local high school students had done a mural there but it “had reached the end of its life.” She noted that a panel reviewed 37 expressions of interest and seven artists were shortlisted to develop concept proposals, leading to the Vancouver-based artist being chosen.
Doyle’s artwork spans more than 20 years, Cavan noted, “beginning as an artist in 3D production to his current practice as a full-time freelance artist specializing in large-scale murals, illustration, package design and fine art.
She said Doyle’s Newton mural design celebrates the “vibrant spirit and sense of community” at the Newton Seniors
Centre.
“Through a lively and welcoming colour palette, the artwork highlights the many ways people connect here, from arts and crafts, exercise and wellness activities, to sharing conversation and coffee with friends,” Cavan said.
“The mural reflects the joy, creativity, and belonging that make the centre such an important gathering place. Designed to create a warm welcome, it invites visitors and members alike to feel the energy, friendship, and inclusivity that define this community space.”