Community Art Program

In partnership with the Bloor Annex BIA, the Paul Martel Park mural was created by 2021 Toronto Arts Foundation Indigenous Artist Award finalist Joseph Sagaj with contributions from artists Denise Aquash, Sonja Clarke, Larry M. Holder, and Mike Rowade aka Ron Wild.

Located off of Madison Avenue (near Spadina Station), the mural is painted in mixed media and water from Upper Lake in the Mountains above Lake Louise, Alberta, and from a lake in Algonquin Park, Ontario – smudged, prayed to, thanked, and offered tobacco. The BIA chose the theme “Indigenous Storytelling” to honour the work that the Earth Helpers, a First Nations group, have been doing in Paul Martel to revitalize the park and ecology with the support of the BIA.

This mural was made possible thanks to the City of Toronto’s Outdoor Mural and Street Art Grant program.

In partnership with STEPS Public Art and artist Shalak Attack, this three-part art installation explores themes of migration through shared stories of arrival, departure, home and longing. Shalak worked alongside community participants who identify as newcomers to build the Daily Migration mural story. The project was completed September 2021 and is located at Wilson Station’s Tippet Road entrance (south of Wilson Ave).

KJ Bit Collective's design incorporates themes of nature and the urban environment to create a vibrant and playful mural. The piece includes local birds such as pileated woodpeckers and finch species. Bold colours and patterns throughout the mural reflect the diverse ethnic demographics of the area, while maintaining a traditional feel amidst this mural. This art installation is located at the Sheppard-Yonge Station Harlandale entrance.
 
Artists: Erika James and Jieun June Kim
Supported by the StreetARToronto Partnership Program Community Partners: City of Toronto and the TTC
September 2020

Partnering with the City of Toronto’s StreetARToronto (StART), the Toronto Parking Authority and East End Arts, we unveiled a mosaic mural in October 2016 at Coxwell station that celebrates the life and spirit of the Coxwell/Danforth neighbourhood. The project became a catalyst for station improvements like wall and walkway repairs, improved lighting and the addition of a convex mirror to enhance customer safety.

Partnering with the City of Toronto’s StreetARToronto Underpass Program (StART UP), 40 pillars along the north and south sides of the underpass on Wilson Avenue that divide Wilson Station were transformed by internationally renowned street artist, Shalak Attack. Four strong and beautiful female gatekeepers appear to hold up the bridge above them, acting as mythical–like guardians protecting those who pass by. The mural goes on to celebrate women as weavers of society, a vibrant and fantastical array of symbolic imagery. Shalak Attack was assisted in the creation of this mural by her husband and artistic collaborator, Bruno Smoky.

The TTC is committed to supporting up to four community art projects each year. We require all potential projects to come fully funded and supported by the community and local City Councillor.

A good place to start is by connecting with StreetARToronto (StART). This program provides funding for large-scale projects, which support our shared mission to revitalize and engage communities through street and mural art.

Community art installations are the responsibility of the project team to maintain for up to five years, at which time we may extend the life of the project should we choose to do so.