Fall Art Festival Exhibition
Explore the Yonge + St. Clair Fall Art Festival outdoor exhibition on now til November 3, 2019 which features 6 new and unique art installations created by local artists and design teams. This outdoor exhibition injects creativity into the heart of midtown, showcasing the modern, cultural renaissance that’s been emerging at Yonge + St. Clair.
This year, artists and design teams from all creative disciplines across Toronto submitted their interpretations of a central concept: Transformation. Much like the local neighbourhood itself, the theme of transformation represents a timely nod to the rediscovery of Yonge + St. Clair, backed by its iconic, storied past and the realization of its new identity as a rapidly growing, and vibrant, urban corner of the city. Come see it for yourself.
Art Installation Locations
Please see the starred locations on the map. Descriptions included below.
A – “Inside Out” by Jacqueline Vandervaart and Rick Schutte sponsored by Slate Asset Management | 17 Delisle Ave, at the Delisle Parkette
This installation aims to challenge the image and experience of the public realm through breaking down the barriers of public and private spaces. Upon discovering this installation, individuals will explore a variety of uncanny furniture pieces and household objects created using the materials of the urban landscape it exists within. This installation intends to act as a playful distraction and escape from the stresses of daily work environments and responsibilities, and function as a reminder of comfort, relaxation, and play. The goal of this installation is to transform the shared perception and experience of public and private spaces, and to encourage a reflection upon the ways in which we interact with and feel in these distinctive environments.
B – “Cage Tree” by Luvère Studio sponsored by Slate Asset Management | 2 St. Clair E, outside Greenhouse Juice Co.
The concept of confining plant life behind bars is novel. Our primary association with a cage is the holding of animals or human captives, one which immediately elicits our sympathy. Cage Tree uses the metaphor of the cage to excite similar feelings of sympathy by the entrapment of a symbol of Nature under threat: the tree, provider of shade and purifier of our air, but menaced by climate change. This stark metaphor invites our primordial subconscious to aid the tree in its distress, empathizing with its capture and desiring its liberation from its plight
C – “fLOOOP” by Connie Lei sponsored by Wittington Properties | 1501 Yonge St, outside Shoppers Drug Mart
To combat the incoming end-of-summer blues, this whimsical installation brings colour and invokes an exploration of your inner child. It interjects a playful way of interacting with public space for the hard-working populace of the neighbourhood. It encourages a light hearted atmosphere to transform the mundane commute for workers and creates a compelling attraction for tourists, while also spreading awareness of important social issues.With the increasing activism for climate change, this installation is a juxtaposition: The igloo-like form serves as a bright reminder on the impact of plastic consumption. To reduce dependency on plastic and single-use items, individual lifestyle changes are needed to bring us one step closer to saving not only the igloos, but also the earth, and all who inhabit it.
D – “Possibility” by Nate Nettleton sponsored by Delisle Court | 1560 Yonge St, outside Bank of Montreal
A rotating disco ball tower, encased by an iridescent housing, transforms reflected light through a full spectrum of colours as it passes through the iridescent acrylic prism. The artwork creates an interactive environment as colourful light dances across surrounding surfaces.
Conceptually the artwork is meant to be symbolic of perseverance & possibility, while aiming to engage viewers in contemplation and consideration of ways in which they have/ could/ will/ want to “transform” their lives or the lives of those around them.
E – “Layers in Transformation” by Jungle Ling sponsored by QuadReal | 34 Rosehill Ave
The two mammoths made from paper mache depict a sense of resilience in fragility experienced in periods of transformation both as individuals and as communities. As we place faith in an unknown future with our courage to change, we are reminded of the ones who had done the same before us. The new layers we are laying down are to be build on top of layers others have laid down. It is important to acknowledge and honour the dreams and toil in these past layers for we are also building the ongoing foundation for future explorers and dreamers.
F – “Crystal” by Nargiza Usmanova, NUMZ Graphics sponsored by Desjardins | 95 St. Clair W
‘CRYSTAL’ has been designed to show the process of transformation throughout the crystal lattice. Using triangular shapes, the artist has created a volumetric structural arch resembling a crystal. To define the shape and add texture to the installation, Nargiza uses the technique of knitting with ropes.
The installation stimulates the senses of passers-by and makes them think about their own journey through life. Copper tubes and ropes used in the structure are aimed to symbolize the diversity of life. Cooper tubing has been used to represent choices. People choose the path that they are on and although it may not always seem like it, have control over their life and destiny. Ropes have been used to symbolize the many factors which influence people’s choices.
The piece is aimed to merge with the urban landscape and change over time, gaining features from its surroundings. Viewers are welcome to explore the piece from all angles.
These 6 art installations will be on display until November 3, 2019 at their respective outdoor locations. You can find more about their locations using the map and descriptions included above.
EVENT SPONSORS
Thank you to our sponsors whose generous support made this event possible:
