Playful outdoor public art coming to Cowan Recreation Centre

 As part of the City of Kitchener’s policy to include public art in new projects, the City has agreed to commission a series of five playful bronze sculptures by Canadian artist Pierre Poussin for the outdoor entrances of the Cowan Recreation Centre, opening late 2026. The artwork, titled Let’s Play!, will welcome visitors with imaginative animal characters captured mid-sport, celebrating movement, teamwork and the joy of play.  

Installed at both of the main entrances to the centre, the sculptures depict local animals — including foxes, squirrels and beavers — in dynamic moments inspired by sports offered at the facility, including soccer, basketball, lacrosse, cricket and volleyball.  

“Cowan Recreation Centre is designed to bring people together by building belonging and community through physical activity, recreation and sport,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “These friendly and playful sculptures will welcome visitors with a sense of fun and playfulness that reflects the spirit of the facility — energetic, inclusive and built for everyone.”  

A community jury selected Let’s Play! through a competitive, multi‑stage public art process, noting its imaginative storytelling, connection to sport and ability to resonate with visitors of all ages.  

Poussin, known for animated and durable public installations across Canada, said the concept draws on the centre’s role as a lively gathering place for families and athletes.  

“Public art can make people smile the moment they see it,” he said. “Let’s Play! invites people to pause, take photos and enjoy playful moments with the characters as part of their experience at the centre.”  

The sculptures are engineered with internal steel structures, smooth finishes and weather‑resistant materials to ensure durability and safety in a high‑traffic public setting. Installation is expected in 2026, subject to the construction schedule.  

When the Cowan Recreation Centre opens, it will feature a FIFA‑sized indoor turf field, aquatics centre, quad gymnasium, cricket practice nets, elevated walking track and multi‑purpose spaces, offering year‑round access to sport and recreation for residents and visitors.  

As one of the largest recreation investments in Kitchener’s history, the centre is designed to support more than 30 local sport affiliate groups, helping expand programming and reduce waitlists. With amenities built to host regional tournaments and events, the facility is also expected to support sport tourism, bringing visitors and economic benefits to the community.  

Together with the previously announced mosaic tile artwork planned for the aquatics centre, the outdoor sculptures reflect the city’s commitment to integrating public art throughout the Cowan Recreation Centre, indoors and out. 

For more information: 
Corporate Communications and Marketing 
City of Kitchener 
media@kitchener.ca