A STEPS PROJECT

Roncesvalles Bridge

Chicago-based artist Justus Roe reinvigorates Roncesvalles pedestrian and cycling bridge with bold colours, transforming the bridge into a vibrant landmark and cultural destination.

PROJECT AT A GLANCE

Location: Roncesvalles Pedestrian Bridge, Toronto (Queensway and Roncesvalles)

Artist: Justus Roe

Year: 2017

Services: Artist Capacity Building, Creative Placemaking, Public Art Management 

80,000

people experience this mural each day

8,000

sq. ft of public artwork

200+

community members engaged in project

63

local youth engaged in the project

PROJECT DETAILS

STEPS facilitated the creation of this landmark mural as part of a cultural exchange between sister cities, City of Chicago and the City of Toronto, commemorating Canada’s 150 anniversary and Chicago’s Year of Public Art. Its completion was marked with a public celebration attended by the City of Toronto’s Honourable Mayor John Tory and it is experienced by over 200,000 commuters each day, straddling Toronto’s busy Gardiner Expressway and rail lines.

“The whole project had feel-good moments, making it inspirational and formative for the kids involved. I’m still trying to find my voice when describing my work, so it was cool looking at the project from the kids’ point of view.”

– Justus Roe, Lead Artist

This mural was the culmination of a cultural exchange that welcomed Chicago-based artist Justus Roe to Toronto, STEPS produced this waterfront mural which draws inspiration from both cities’ connection to the Great Lakes. The Roncesvalles Pedestrian Bridge which hosts the work, connects West End communities to Lake Ontario, has been transformed into a well-loved pedestrian and cycling thoroughfare.

“It was really hard work, but it was worth it, the outcome is really beautiful. When you make something this huge that is noticeable to everyone around it — you really make a difference.”
– Ashna Parbatie, Artist Assistant 

As part of our commitment to community engagement and youth capacity building, STEPS facilitated several community paint days in collaboration with West Neighbourhood House, as well as hosted youth workshops with participants from Maximum City’s summer camp.

“This is amazing! We are so glad we were able to connect with STEPS on such a great
project. Our youth had a wonderful time and truly enjoyed being a part of the initiative.”

– Yasmin Moursalien, West Neighbourhood House