West Coast Kiaro

Created by Humanity Art: Lys Glassford and Lauren Semple.

Project Overview
In 2020, KIARO Cannabis commissioned Humanity in Art to create a custom mural for the launch of their new retail space in Nanaimo, British Columbia. Known for integrating local artistry into their store environments, Kiaro partnered with the artists to infuse corporate branding with distinctive west coast imagery. The mural was designed to reflect both the company's visual identity and the regional landscape where the store is located.

Creative Approach
Humanity in Art collaborated directly with Kiaro’s Alberta-based marketing team to ensure alignment with the brand’s established visual guidelines. The design retained the signature Kiaro “K” as a central motif, surrounded by layered elements drawn from British Columbia’s coastal environment.
To bridge brand with place, the mural featured a swirling Pacific Ocean pattern, a stylized lighthouse, and framing from the cross-section of a cedar tree. These components captured the essence of west coast living and anchored the artwork in the local cultural geography.

Execution
The mural was executed on-site using a combination of acrylic and mixed media, carefully integrating visual contrast and compositional hierarchy. Placement within the storefront was carefully selected to maximize visibility and complement the interior layout, thereby helping to define the customer experience while reinforcing Kiaro’s community-integrated ethos.

Outcome
The finished piece delivered on multiple fronts, enhancing the store’s atmosphere, supporting brand messaging, and offering customers a visual connection to place.