OC Transpo unveils Black History Month mural designed by local artist

OC Transpo is unveiling a “special look” to three of its buses in celebration of Black History Month.

Ottawa artist Jimmy Baptiste created a symbolic mural titled “Pride of Dreams” that will make its way across the city.

“Public transit is one of the most powerful ways to make art accessible, because it brings art directly to people in their everyday lives,” Baptiste said in a news release from OC Transpo. “In a way, it reminds me of graffiti on trains. Art that travels through different parts of the city and becomes part of the public experience. It turns the city into a moving gallery, reaching people directly in their everyday lives.”

Comic books, cartoons and graffiti are what inspire the artists. He says utilizing the urban setting provides both a canvas and a gallery, making his art not only inspiring, but educational.

And what better way to educate than to introduce the Ottawa community to its very own trailblazers.

OC Transpo said the mural covers approximately 200 square feet. In that space, Baptists capture a collection of local people and stories.

Award-winning journalist Stefan Keyes, blues musician Angelique Francis, and soccer star Charmaine Hooper are among the symbols within the mural, representing some of the city’s best and brightest.

Other symbols are less obvious. Near the centre of the mural is the Barber Street sign, honouring Paul Barber, an enslaved man who sought freedom in Ottawa, settling and making it his home.

The Brown’s Cleaners sign pays tribute to the entrepreneurial spirit of Herbert “Pops” and Estelle Brown.

Finally a porter stands off to the side, representing men who fought for better working conditions and built a union.

“Throughout the process, the goal was to pay tribute to Black trailblazers and community figures who helped shape Ottawa’s cultural, historical, and creative identity,” Baptiste said. “At the same time, it was important to honour the strength and sacrifices of our ancestors. Giving thanks to the people whose hard work helped build better futures for generations that came after them.”

Through his work, Baptiste said he hopes to inspire feelings of pride, respect and connection.

“I want Black communities to see themselves reflected in a way that feels powerful and celebratory, and for everyone, I hope it sparks curiosity for the stories and contributions being honoured,” he said. “More than anything, I want it to feel uplifting; like a moving reminder that Black history is living history, and it continues to shape the city every day.”

Black History Month is celebrated throughout the month of February.

More of Baptiste’s work can be found on his website.