2025 YMM Digital Art Exhibit Call to Artists Issued
Fort McMurray, AB – The Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) invites art enthusiasts and the community to a captivating evening as it unveils the final 2024 YMM Digital Art Exhibit. Register at no cost to attend on Friday, November 1, from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Level 3 Observation Area for the exhibit launch of More Than, a stunning collection by local photographer Robert Coppard.
This special event is a celebration of Robert’s work, which showcases the breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty of Fort McMurray and the surrounding area.
“As an organization, we are thrilled to showcase Robert Coppard’s incredible photography through the YMM Digital Art Exhibit,” said Denean Robinson, President & CEO of the Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “His work beautifully highlights the natural beauty of our region and reminds us all of the deep connection we have to this place. We’re proud to provide a platform for local artists like Robert to share their stories and inspire the community.”
Through his lens, Robert captures the lesser-known side of the area, sharing images of its pristine lakes, rolling sand dunes, abundant wildlife, and majestic views, offering a perspective that defies Fort McMurray’s industrial reputation.
As Robert reflects on his artistic journey, he shares, “To have my work displayed at the YMM Digital Art Exhibit is surreal. It’s the first time I truly feel like an artist since picking up a camera. I want to show the world the incredible natural beauty right here in Fort McMurray.”
In the aftermath of the 2016 Horse River Wildfire, which cost Robert and his wife their home, photography became Robert’s way of healing – a path that led him to capture the essence of his surroundings.
In the spirit of giving back to the community, Robert is donating prints from his exhibit to the Ihkapaskwa Indigenous Wellness Collective, a grassroots non-profit dedicated to providing culturally safe reproductive care for Indigenous families.
The exhibit launch will feature live music, light refreshments, an opportunity to hear Robert speak to his work, and network with fellow attendees. This unique opportunity to support local art and celebrate a powerful story of resilience, passion, and community spirit. The exhibit will remain on display at YMM for three months following the launch. Register here for free.
Applications for the 2025 YMM Digital Art Program are now being accepted. The theme is “The Art of Connection.” This theme explores how art fosters connections among people within the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo region through the lens of travel. We invite artists to submit their solo projects that reflect personal experiences, and the bonds formed during journeys. Our aim is to showcase how art can bridge differences and promote shared understanding among individuals, celebrating the unique stories and connections that enrich our community. Submission details can be found here.
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About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com
Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA). YMM connects the world to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. YMM offers direct flights to three major Canadian cities, and acts as the launch point for air taxi services to various remote communities. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic impact of over $290 million, supporting over 40 businesses and 500 jobs on airport campus.
Fort McMurray Airport Authority Media Contact:
Jessica Lipton, Manager, Marketing & Communications
780-880-0333 / Jessica.Lipton@flyymm.com