PUBLIC ART & PUBLIC HEALTH COMING TO A CONSTRUCTION SITE NEAR YOU
Young photographers exhibited in downtown Toronto as part of citywide exhibits on construction sites.
Underutilized spaces like construction sites are blank canvases for outdoor galleries. This idea inspired PATCH Hoarding Exhibits, a service that connects land developers with artists to produce unique artwork in response to City of Toronto requirements. “We help our clients invest in community spaces while creating paid opportunities for artists who’ve experienced significant lost income throughout the pandemic. All proceeds from our public art services are further reinvested into our charitable programs to increase community access to arts programming,” says Alexis Kane Speer, STEPS Executive Director.
With Ontario Trillium Foundation’s support through a three-year Grow Grant to scale enterprise activities, STEPS has engaged increasing numbers of artists in large-scale projects. STEPS has produced 70 exhibits on construction sites with a roster of 140+ multidisciplinary artists.
“STEPS is highly respected for leading community-focused projects that create welcoming public spaces in our city. This funding will connect STEPS with more artists and diverse communities, and make Toronto a landmark for public art internationally.”
– SUZE MORRISON, MPP FOR TORONTO CENTRE
Photo Credit: Sharon Mendonca
“Public art is important to community recovery; it helps us imagine a different world and feel connected and hopeful.”
– Bareket Kezwer, STEPS ARTIST
During a year when community health has been top priority, STEPS invited GTA photographers under the age of 30 to submit artwork focussed on urban environment, health and wellness for the “Toronto Makes Good” exhibit hosted by Graywood Developments. Artists were supported through virtual photography workshops facilitated with JAYU, and ten photographs are featured at Peter & Adelaide (102 Peter Street).
“We’re excited for the opportunity to feature the work of aspiring artists with STEPS and JAYU. These photos beautifully encapsulate the spirit of what makes Toronto unique.”
– CHRISTINE CHEA, GRAYWOOD DEVELOPMENTS
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations. OTF awarded $115 million to 644 projects last year to build healthy and vibrant communities in Ontario.
Read the full media release and follow @STEPSpublicart and #thePATCHproject for new exhibit announcements.
