Residents of a Winnipeg neighbourhood received a galactic surprise just before the holidays, as a towering sculpture from a galaxy far, far away landed in a local yard. The impressive feat of engineering and art is the work of dedicated university students.
From Classroom to Jubilee Avenue: A Stagecraft Project Takes Shape
An Advanced Stagecraft class at the University of Winnipeg is responsible for creating the iconic All Terrain Armored Transport (AT-AT) from the Star Wars universe. The class designed and built the large-scale replica, which was then transported and installed in a yard on Jubilee Avenue in Winnipeg.
The sculpture was photographed in place on December 23, 2025, marking a unique intersection of academic work, pop culture, and public art. This project goes beyond a simple model, representing a significant undertaking in construction, design, and material use typical of advanced theatrical set design.
Blending Art, Fandom, and Practical Skills
The creation of the AT-AT serves as a hands-on, practical application of the skills taught in the university's stagecraft program. Students likely engaged in processes including:
- Conceptual design and scaling
- Structural engineering for stability
- Material selection and procurement
- Collaborative construction and assembly
Placing the finished sculpture in a public-facing residential yard transforms a private space into a temporary exhibit, sharing the students' work with the broader community and adding a whimsical, conversation-starting element to the streetscape.
A Holiday Surprise for Winnipeg
The timing of the display, just before Christmas, provided an unexpected gift for locals and passersby. Such projects highlight the creative talent within Winnipeg's academic institutions and demonstrate how specialized programs can produce visible and engaging outcomes.
While the future of the AT-AT sculpture after its yard display is not detailed, its presence underscores the value of applied arts education. It shows how technical skills can be used to create works that resonate with public interest and celebrate shared cultural touchstones like the Star Wars franchise.
The project successfully merges academic pursuit with community engagement, leaving a memorable impression on the neighbourhood and serving as a testament to the ingenuity of University of Winnipeg students.
