From celebrating local music to honouring generations of family businesses, business improvement areas (BIAs) across Ontario are using public art to bring colour, character, and community stories to downtown streets. Recent murals in Stratford and Belleville, Ont., show how these projects can celebrate local identity.

Stratford mural turns up the volume

The Downtown Stratford BIA has unveiled Strike Up the Band, a mural by Canadian Maritime artist Shane Drever at 118 Ontario Street, on the exterior wall of The Milky Whey Fine Cheese Shop.

The artwork celebrates musicians and bands connected to Stratford and the surrounding area, reflecting the community’s musical heritage beyond its well-known theatre scene. Because the wall could accommodate only a limited number of names, the BIA is developing four Spotify playlists featuring a broader range of local musical talent, from classical and opera to rock, folk, and hip-hop.

Belleville mural celebrates community

In Belleville, the Downtown Belleville BIA (DBIA) has unveiled Growth in Community, its third mural of 2026. Created by artist Christopher Bennett, known professionally as Serna, the mural occupies the north exterior wall of Barber’s Flowers at 122 Front Street.

The artwork celebrates connection and growth, themes reflected in the flower shop’s history. Founded in 1890, the family business has served Belleville for more than 135 years.

Funded through the Rural Ontario Development Grant, the project forms part of the DBIA’s ongoing downtown beautification efforts. The BIA says its murals transform building exteriors into colourful landmarks while celebrating the people, businesses, and stories that shape the city.