Hilary Letwin, Manager of Cultural Services for the City of Coquitlam, discusses her multifaceted role overseeing public art, heritage collections, and cultural programming. She manages the city’s public art collection, which includes over 35 artworks installed across Coquitlam, both in expected and surprising places. Letwin is also involved in commissioning new works, including murals as part of the Streetscape Enhancement Program. Story by LJI reporter Nancy Furness.

She oversees the Riverview Hospital artifacts collection, which the city acquired from the provincial health authority in 2012. This collection includes around 2,500 items—such as nurses’ uniforms, medical equipment, crockery, and resident-made artworks—that reflect the lived experiences of those connected to the hospital. A searchable online database has been launched, and some objects are currently displayed in a micro-exhibition at the Poirier Branch Library, running until September 8.

Hilary encourages the public to share stories and donate artifacts related to Riverview. The city archives also hold related historical records. She works closely with cultural partners like the Evergreen Cultural Centre, Place des Arts, Coquitlam Heritage Society, and the public library to support community programming.

Hilary provides updates on several Streetscape Enhancement projects. A new abstract mural, Passages and Pathways by Sarah Delaney, was recently unveiled in South Coquitlam and is visible from Highway 1. Another ground mural near the Burquitlam SkyTrain Station, featuring tulips and bicycle wheels, honors the Hobbis family’s cycling legacy.

She also introduced two new summer programs: Paint in the Park and Music in the Streets. Paint in the Park offers a free, drop-in artist pavilion at Como Lake Park and also includes low-cost guided sessions, sponsored by Opus Art Supplies. A contest invites participants to submit their art for a prize. Music in the Streets brings live performances to public areas, featuring a variety of local musicians, enriching Coquitlam’s outdoor spaces.

Finally, Hilary encourages residents to stay informed through the city’s Parks, Recreation, and Culture e-newsletter and to share feedback or ideas. These initiatives aim to make art and culture more visible, accessible, and engaging for the entire community.