Showcasing Youth Talent and the Journey of Grit to Greatness.
November 6, 2024 Calgary — The Calgary Stampede proudly unveiled the 2025 Stampede Poster artwork, showcasing the exceptional talent of 22-year-old Calgarian Elora Kiddle.
Her work, capturing the essence of barrel racing, is a vibrant symbol of determination, grit and the transformative journey of perseverance. The 24-by-36-inch acrylic on canvas, titled Grit to Greatness, features Barrel Racer Kellie Jorgensen (née Collier) and her horse, Salty, in an intense, action-packed moment during the iconic Calgary Stampede Rodeo in 2021.
"The 2025 Stampede Poster embodies the spirit and resilience that define the Calgary Stampede,” says Stuart O’Connor, First Vice-Chair of the Calgary Stampede Board of Directors and incoming 2025 President & Chair of the Board. “Elora’s artwork celebrates the passion, courage and commitment that drive our competitors and community alike. Her vivid portrayal of barrel racing speaks to the heart of our events, making this Poster a powerful emblem for the 2025 Calgary Stampede.”
"For me, the 2025 Stampede Poster is about the journey from grit to greatness. Just like the Stampede grew from dust into The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, creating this piece meant pushing through challenges. With every splatter and brushstroke, I felt like I was finding my own voice as an artist,” says Elora, the 2025 Stampede Poster Artist.
As a born and raised Calgarian, the Stampede is a part of Elora’s family story. Not only do they attend the annual celebration each July, but her twin sister, Emily, is in her sixth year as a trombonist with the Calgary Stampede Showband. As a three-time participant in the Calgary Stampede Youth Poster Competition, winning the 2025 competition is a major milestone for Elora.
“The Stampede has always been a big part of my life. I got my first job in the Grandstand, where I witnessed the energy and determination of the Rodeo every day,” says Elora, who recently graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts. “I wanted to channel that same level of determination and excitement while creating this year’s Poster. I’ve dreamed of this moment for years, and to see it come to life is something I’ll carry with me forever."
Since 2018, the Youth Poster Competition has fostered creativity and provided mentorship to young artists. Elora is the seventh artist selected as the program’s annual finalist and the recipient of the $10,000 Dustin Peers Memorial Scholarship, generously funded by the Brandon Flock Foundation. The Brandon Flock Foundation also awards an additional $10,000 in scholarships across the competition, bringing the total to $20,000 annually for the top eight finalists, making it one of Canada’s largest art scholarships.
“This competition is an incredible platform for young Alberta artists to showcase their talent and be part of the Stampede’s history,” says Stuart. “The program’s dedication to youth achievement aligns with the Calgary Stampede Foundation’s commitment to supporting youth in our community by providing dynamic programming to enhance their leadership skills, personal growth, citizenship and education.”
The Calgary Stampede is currently accepting applications from Alberta youth aged 15 to 24 for the 2026 Youth Poster Competition. The application deadline is Friday, December 6, 2024. Apply to be part of the Youth Poster Competition or find more information about the process here.
Experience the story of the 2025 Stampede Poster as it joins the previous six Youth Poster Competition artworks in a special exhibit at Sam Centre from November 6 to 10. Elora will be available to sign prints of the 2025 Poster from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. on November 7, 8 and 9.
Sam Centre is a must-see destination, immersing visitors in the Stampede’s legendary stories, offering an exciting opportunity to learn about and experience the history of the Stampede through interactive exhibits. Learn more about Sam Centre here.
Tickets are also now on sale for the 2025 Calgary Stampede Rodeo and Evening Show, July 4-13. For the best seats in the house, get yours today by visiting calgarystampede.com/tickets.
About the Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We’re Greatest Together, we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and celebrates our western heritage, cultures and community spirit. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities.
SOURCE: Calgary Stampede News Release