BJ Zieger has been painting for more than 15 years, but in the five years since moving to Estevan, he’s become a familiar name and style throughout the city—especially for those who have taken a walk past some of its most striking murals.
Zieger, who is both a painter and tattoo artist, said his journey into public art was simply a continuation of his passion for painting.
Some of his mural projects have been commissioned, while others started with him asking building owners for permission to use their walls as his canvas. Either way, Zieger said there’s been growing interest in public art in the community.
“Yeah, absolutely. I think the more people see the murals, the more they like them—and the more they want more of them.”
Zieger is particularly drawn to portraits and animals, saying they’re both the most challenging and most enjoyable subjects to paint. He gravitates toward large-scale work, focusing on detail and creating impact with one central subject.
“I just try to make it as big as possible so I can get the detail, and I just go with whatever I’m feeling inspired by at the moment—whatever I think is going to look best for the spot.”
His creative practice isn’t limited to walls—Zieger is also an experienced tattoo artist and filmmaker. .
“If it wasn’t for painting, I don’t think I’d be half the tattoo artist I am. Being able to have that eye for what a painting needs is incredibly crucial for tattooing too—knowing what a piece needs.”
He also recently completed a documentary that blends his art, travels, and philosophy on creativity.
“It’s kind of a mix of motivational, inspirational stuff—travelling and my art. From everything that art has given me, I did this film to show that everybody can have something they love, and hopefully inspire them to pursue something they’ve always dreamt of.”
Zieger has created murals across the city, including two at the Estevan Comprehensive School, and others at locations such as Power Dodge, Onyx + Ivory, Exhale, Henders Drugs, and Beatz Eatz.
Zieger still has his eye on a few dream spots. “There’s a nice wall on The Loft on 4th. The Trout building, when you come into town—that’s a nice wall too, but they just repainted that."
He believes murals have a direct and powerful impact on the look and feel of the community.
“Take right now—we’re in a back alley, which is normally broken beer bottles, garbage cans, debris. And now it’s brightened up completely with this underwater sea turtle that would never really be here otherwise."
Zieger said he’s grateful to be doing what he loves—and always open to doing more of it.
“I just love painting and making art. The more I do it, the more fun I have. And I love that I get paid to do a hobby I love so much.”
For anyone interested in commissioning a mural or artwork, Zieger said he’s always open to new projects.
“I don’t really turn down anything—depending on what it is,” he said. “But I like to work with everyone as much as I can.”