SKEIN (Dufferin Underpass)
A STEPS PROJECT
Completed in the summer of 2014, this Toronto mural was the first of many cultural landmarks produced locally by STEPS Public Art in collaboration with artistic duo PA System and local residents committed to fostering vibrant public spaces in their community.
Project at a Glance
Location: South of Dufferin Street and Castlefield Avenue intersection (York Beltline Trail), Toronto, Ontario
Artist(s): PA System (Alexa Hatanaka and Patrick Thompson)
Year: 2014
Project Photographer/Videographer: Annia Vee, Vera Belazelkoska
Services: Creative Placemaking, Public Art Management
2
lead artists
100+
community members engaged
2
exterior murals
2
interior pedestrian tunnel murals
About this Project
As part of a wider initiative to revitalize public spaces in the area, this work transformed a piece of aging infrastructure plagued with graffiti into a celebrated local landmark.
Produced in partnership with artistic duo PA System, new works were installed on the two exterior walls of the underpass, as well as two pedestrian tunnels. This colourful and multifaceted installation, inspired the community’s rich textile history, was designed in collaboration with local residents, particularly with members of the Friends of the Beltline.
Countless community members, recruited through local social serving agencies and schools, were engaged in the various stages of the project’s development and celebration.
Complementing infrastructure improvements at the site have included enhanced lighting, as well as the development of a creative way-finding strategy that mirrors the aesthetic direction of the SKEIN Dufferin Underpass Mural.
Partners and Funders
Special thanks to our partners who made this project possible, including the City of Toronto’s StreetARToronto program, Friends of the York Beltline, North York Women’s Centre, Councillor Josh Colle, Toronto Hyundai, Forest Hill Lofts, Dulux Paints, Lowe’s and Owl-Lite.
We would also like to thank local businesses, residents associations, and local community member.