In Castlegar, organizers and artists are setting up for the city's annual Sculpturewalk, but this year, the main piece on display will be consumed in an inferno of flames.

Now in its 12th year, the outdoor exhibit showcases local and international artists who have brought their work to Castlegar—dubbed "The Sculpture Capital of Canada"— but the event hasn't happened since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Touch wood, we are happy to finally present it,” said Joy Barrett, executive director for the event.

This year, three artists will be presenting their work and competing for the Peoples' Choice award which will see their entry purchased by the City of Castlegar, she said.

Artists Spring Shine, Christopher Peterson and Yvonne Boyd, all Argenta residents, will also be building the 20-foot wooden dragon which will be lit on fire at the end of the event,.

Sculpturewalk kicks off at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10 at Millennium Park.

"First time we're playing with fire"–Executive Director Joy Barrett speaks with KCR News on the upcoming art event in Castlegar: