NEIGHBOURS OF THE NORTH.

THE BEAUTY & MYSTIQUE OF THE ARTIC WOLF.

Neighbours of the North celebrates the captivating beauty and mystique of the Arctic wolf, the opening of the R. Mallot Arctic Wolf Habitat, and our new wild neighbours, Aspen & Anuri, who now call the Edmonton Valley Zoo home.

Following the tragic death of his partner, Shilah, in 2022, zookeepers spent more than a year searching for suitable companions for Tundra. In 2024, Aspen and Anuri joined the Edmonton Valley Zoo from France as Tundra’s new packmates. 

The Valley Zoo Development Society, in partnership with the Malliner Charitable Foundation, immediately initiated the creation of a new wolf habitat. A home that focused on cognitive challenges, play, and natural expression, while promoting awareness about their conservation needs. The R. Mallot Arctic Wolf Habitat was opened in the spring of 2025, allowing visitors to see Tundra and his pack thriving in their upgraded home.

This new habitat stands as a testament to the zoo’s commitment to animal welfare, fostering meaningful connections between wildlife and the community, and serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and conserving the fragile northern landscapes that Arctic wolves depend on to thrive.

Brighly lit, Nieghbours of the North, shines like the northern star, welcoming and celebrating our Arctic friends.

This installation is constructed from layers of plywood, painted in bright colors to create a glowing effect beneath blacklight spotlights. Further illumination is provided by energy-saving LED rope lights.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

ANTHONY ESLAVA.

Like a lone wolf, the creative force behind this installation is Anthony Eslava from AceWood Co. Anthony is a carpenter and woodworker from Edmonton, Alberta. Anthony’s enthusiasm lies in seamlessly merging artistic expression with the inherent beauty of natural materials. 

Anthony crafts public art pieces that unite people, illuminate spaces, and serve as a powerful artistic voice, conveying a deeper message. Through his company, Ace Wood Co., Anthony helps people create their dream environment with unique, thoughtfully designed items. 

This installation marks Anthony’s third year lighting up Zoominesence with public art. His past exhibits, “Northern Spirits”, “Grevy’s Glow”, and “Stripes in the Shadows”, have each brought imagination and wonder to the night.

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