Pride Toronto's 2023 Visual Art Installments
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Visual Art 2024
Pride Toronto’s Visual Arts program plays a pivotal role in providing crucial support to local 2SLGBTQIA+ artists through its diverse offerings, including the Installation Art Program, Affiliate Programs, Art Zone, and Nuit Blanche. In the 2023 edition, we showcased the exceptional work of 18 talented artists, presenting a total of 27 remarkable artworks. The installation art theme, “Pride Across the Multiverse – Love beyond time and space,” thoughtfully aligned with Pride Toronto 2023’s overarching theme, “Here, There, Everywhere.” Our meticulous selection process led to collaborations with six outstanding installation artists, namely Caylon & Joy, Adam Zivo, Bruno Duarte, Terran Mcneely, and En Tze. Notably, Tim Singleton’s artwork was chosen to grace Pride Toronto’s sustainable reusable cups from 2023 to 2026. Complementing these initiatives, we proudly partnered with 22 Affiliate Art Exhibitions, featuring exciting collaborations, including one with OCAD U and Stackt Market. Last but not least, Pride Toronto has been a Major Institutions partner in Nuit Blanche since 2022 and has participated multiple times in previous years.
2024
Title of the Artwork: Yin and Yang
“Yin and Yang“ is an interactive artwork designed in the shape of an accordion, symbolizing the fluidity and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. As viewers move around the piece, they will experience a dynamic shift in imagery, revealing two powerful symbols of strength and resilience. The concept of Yin and Yang intertwines with the vibrant imagery of Korean tiger and dragon, symbolizing the dynamic balance and harmony within diversity.
Jieun Kim (AKA. June) is Toronto based, Korean born painter, tattooer, and activist public muralist who is interested in creating safe spaces through street art.
St. Lawrence Market, located in Toronto, Canada, is a historic and bustling marketplace known for its wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and specialty items. Established in the early 19th century, it has become a cultural and culinary landmark, attracting both locals and tourists. The market’s vibrant atmosphere is complemented by its rich history, housed in a charming heritage building that enhances the shopping experience.
Portal of Possibilities is a public art installation designed for audience interaction. You are invited to sit within or move through the piece. The infinity portal is a spot for contemplation of one’s own potential future or can be a transitional opening to the path one is already seeking. In both options, the portal invites you to Be Infinitely Yourself.
FROSTILLO is a multidisciplinary artist who often works with vibrant colour. They design and paint murals, create large fibre artworks, and are passionate about making public art that engages the audience. They specialize in projects that combine fine arts and carpentry techniques.
The Eaton Centre, situated in downtown Toronto, is a massive shopping mall and one of the city’s premier retail destinations, featuring over 250 stores, restaurants, and services. Known for its iconic glass galleria and a striking flock of fiberglass Canadian geese sculptures, the mall offers a unique and vibrant shopping experience. Its central location and extensive selection make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists, blending retail therapy with architectural beauty.
Imagining new, previously unidentified, possibilities within oneself, relationships, ways of thinking, and all areas of a life, this mural reflects the unbounded, limitless and open nature of this view of queerness. The abstract forms of the composition allows it to exist within and without many different realities, as the florals merge together to form a greater whole, speaking to the unlimited nature of love, community, and personal expression.
Kayla Whitney is a Hamilton based artist, muralist and community engager. She is so grateful to live this weird magical life where she can connect with other human beings through her art.
Trinity Bellwoods Park, located in the heart of Toronto, is a beloved urban green space known for its expansive lawns, mature trees, and vibrant community activities. The park features amenities such as tennis courts, a skating rink, and an off-leash dog area, making it a versatile destination for recreation and relaxation. Its lively atmosphere is enhanced by frequent cultural events, farmers’ markets, and a strong sense of local community engagement.
As an LGBTQ2S+ public artist, my key process is working within the local community to bring vibrant artwork that ties us together. This process creates a thriving, compassionate, and safe neighbourhood that builds strength and pride. The BE ME archway installation shares an opportunity to be part of this, to walk through an archway of community. Reflecting on how each of us contributes to this strength by being our authentic selves. Encouraging us to BE ME.
Monica is an LGBTQ2S+ /Luxembourg/Canadian artist with a passion for public art. Originally trained in hand-painted outdoor advertising, Monica has moved towards community-based public art installations, in Toronto, and across Canada. Recently, Monica’s practice leans towards inviting viewers to share space with her sculptures.
Trinity Bellwoods Park, located in the heart of Toronto, is a beloved urban green space known for its expansive lawns, mature trees, and vibrant community activities. The park features amenities such as tennis courts, a skating rink, and an off-leash dog area, making it a versatile destination for recreation and relaxation. Its lively atmosphere is enhanced by frequent cultural events, farmers’ markets, and a strong sense of local community engagement.
This work acts as a figurative dance evoking expression and community. Each figure caught in their own expression, taking up space through authenticity and bringing together the uniqueness of each individual into a collective space. Queerness opens pathways for expressions of authenticity, allowing us to find our own sense of freedom without compromise. Through claiming space for ourselves, we hold space for each other.
Tyler Burey is a multidisciplinary queer indigenous artist from northern Ontario, living and working in Toronto ON. His work focuses on themes of identity, intimacy, and the queer body. Tyler uses his practice to attempt to make sense of the complexity of life and expression.
Stackt Market, located in Toronto, is a unique and innovative marketplace constructed from shipping containers, offering a mix of retail shops, eateries, and cultural spaces. This modular, open-air market provides a dynamic environment where visitors can enjoy a variety of local and artisanal products, pop-up events, and community gatherings. Its creative design and focus on sustainability and community engagement make Stackt Market a standout destination in the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
“Deeply Rooted” is a proclamation of existence reaching from the past and branching into the future. From our roots, which twisted and wound through impossible obstacles to carve out space for our survival, we developed solid platforms on which our community could grow and thrive. Like a generational garden, we are well established and ever-expanding, with histories too deep to displace. Collectively formidable and breathtaking, we have been and we will be. For we are Deeply Rooted.
Earth to Elize is an “alien artist,” with a multi-disciplinary creative practice that draws from their experience as a Non-binary, Neurodivergent, Queer individual. Their vibrant works serve as portals to a realm of strange creatures, fantastical landscapes, and whimsical narratives, urging us not only to embrace the unusual, but to weave it with intention and curiosity into our own stories.
Stackt Market, located in Toronto, is a unique and innovative marketplace constructed from shipping containers, offering a mix of retail shops, eateries, and cultural spaces. This modular, open-air market provides a dynamic environment where visitors can enjoy a variety of local and artisanal products, pop-up events, and community gatherings. Its creative design and focus on sustainability and community engagement make Stackt Market a standout destination in the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Butterfly is a symbol of reborn and renewal, with the power of transformation and the incredible feats we can achieve when we trust ourselves. When we come out to ourselves and loved ones, we feel like we are being reborn and ready to take flight in this beautiful new world being our authentic selves. We are all fabulous butterflies ready to spread our wings and experience this beautiful world that we live in.
Born and raised amidst Madeira’s floral abundance, Bruno’s fascination with orchids bloomed. Training at Humber College honed his skills, shaping the distinctive style that captivates today. Bruno’s creative prowess knows no bounds, conjuring breathtaking designs that mesmerize. Whether crafting for personal sanctuaries or public spaces, his work enchants all who behold it, leaving a lasting impression of natural beauty and ingenuity.
Pride Toronto 2024’s StreetFairs Art Zone is a vibrant showcase of diverse artistic expressions, featuring an array of visual and performing arts. This dynamic outdoor space brings together talented artists and performers, creating a lively and inclusive celebration of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
This photographic mural explores the joy and exuberance of Taipei’s LGBTQ community, where people of all genders and orientations live openly and without fear of hate. In addition to having comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, Taiwan is the only country in Asia where same-sex marriage is legal. Although the sovereign state is a beacon of inclusivity in the region, not many people in the West know about this – which is why this installation exists.
Adam Zivo is a writer, photographer, and filmmaker. He is best known for his columns in the National Post, as well as for founding and directing the Centre For Responsible Drug Policy and the LoveisLoveisLove project.
Pride Toronto 2024’s StreetFairs Art Zone is a vibrant showcase of diverse artistic expressions, featuring an array of visual and performing arts. This dynamic outdoor space brings together talented artists and performers, creating a lively and inclusive celebration of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
Date & Time:
- Friday, June 28th: 7pm to 9pm
- Saturday, June 29th: 1pm to 3pm
Get ready for an electrifying collaboration! Pride Toronto 2024 is proud to once again partner with Art Battle to bring you a vibrant showcase of diverse and talented 2SLGBTQI+ visual artists. Cast your vote for your favourite masterpiece and seize the opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind artwork. All proceeds from the bid will support the charity.
Pride Toronto 2024’s StreetFairs Art Zone is a vibrant showcase of diverse artistic expressions, featuring an array of visual and performing arts. This dynamic outdoor space brings together talented artists and performers, creating a lively and inclusive celebration of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
Date & Time:
- Friday, June 28th: 9pm to 11pm
- Saturday, June 29th: 3pm to 11pm
- Sunday, June 30th: 1pm to 11pm
Join the fun at the StreetARToronto PRIDE booth! Nine talented artists will be painting live throughout the weekend. See their meaningful artworks come to life before your eyes. Engage in art-making activities for the whole family. Let’s celebrate with lots of colourful fun!
www.streetartoronto.ca/paintwithpride | @start_streetartoronto / @the519
Pride Toronto 2024’s StreetFairs Art Zone is a vibrant showcase of diverse artistic expressions, featuring an array of visual and performing arts. This dynamic outdoor space brings together talented artists and performers, creating a lively and inclusive celebration of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
Date & Time:
- Friday, June 28th: 7pm to 11pm
- Saturday, June 29th: 1pm to 11pm
- Sunday, June 30th: 1pm to 11pm
Leave your mark! Join our family-friendly art-making activity. Stop by the interactive area of the ArtZone to write your “Be” tag and contribute the entire perimeter of the ArtZone
Pride Toronto 2024’s StreetFairs Art Zone is a vibrant showcase of diverse artistic expressions, featuring an array of visual and performing arts. This dynamic outdoor space brings together talented artists and performers, creating a lively and inclusive celebration of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
2023
Title of the Artwork: LOVE IS LOVE
Artist Statement:
This creation is a celebration of LOVE. There are many parts of the world where we aren’t allowed to love who we want because of judgment, religion, and laws put on us. I want this art to be a reminder that we all need love and deserve to love who we want no matter what. LOVE IS LOVE.
Artist Biography:
Bruno grew up surrounded by flowers on his family’s farm in Madeira. His approach to floral design is both sculptural and emotional, blending organic materials and found objects together to create works of art. When he’s not at his studio, Bruno can be found creating arrangements in front of a live audience in many places in the USA, Northern Ireland, and the UK. He won the CAFA award at Canada Blooms Florist Alley in 2017 and 2018 and the People’s Choice award in 2018. He has also won the Pacific Northwest Floral Design Competition in 2018. He had the great opportunity to represent Canada in Singapore in 2018 in Windows of the World at their garden show. He won Floral Artist of the Year 2019 at Canada Blooms, Got second place at Maple Leaf Cup 2019, and won the CAFA award for most creative use of materials at the Maple Leaf Cup 2019.
Location: Nathan Philip Square
Nathan Phillips Square is a bustling public gathering space in the heart of Toronto, known for its iconic “Toronto” sign and the City Hall backdrop. It serves as a cultural hub, hosting events, festivals, and community gatherings, including the annual Pride Toronto celebration.
Artist Biography:
Caylen Monroe & JoyO. are multidisciplinary queer artists dedicated to creating immersive art experiences that bring together communities and facilitate spaces of rest, queer joy, and playfulness. Their past projects include murals, interactive installations, and secret art shows.
Contact: https://caylenmonroe.com/ @caylenmonroe
https://joyoresic.com/ @midnight_mangooo
Location: CF Toronto Eaton Centre
CF Toronto Eaton Centre is home to a diverse mix of retailers, restaurants and shops. A vibrant and iconic landmark, the centre is steps away from Toronto’s financial and entertainment districts and prominent cultural landmarks.
Title of the Artwork: Menshen (Door Gods)
Name of the Artist: En Tze Loh
Artist Statement:
Menshen (Door Gods) is an art installation featuring the Chinese culture of Menshen, which are divine guardians of doors and gates with a queer, trans, and Malaysian twist. The doors feature trans and queer humanized interpretations of the East and Southeast Asian gods Azure Dragon and White Tiger set in ancient times, and the Vermilion Bird and Black Tortoise set during the present day.
Artist Biography:
En Tze Loh (they/them) is a queer & non-binary Malaysian illustrator, graphic designer, tattoo artist, filmmaker, and creator of queer goth apparel & art brand GRRRL Spells, based in Toronto, Canada.
Contact: @en_tze | en-tze.format.com
Location: The Downtown Yonge BIA
The Downtown Yonge B.I.A. is a non-profit organization that is committed to improving the daily experience of our members, residents, visitors, and all stakeholders with an end goal of strengthening the culture and economy of the Downtown Yonge community and Toronto.
Artist Statement:
Safe Space for Pride Toronto is a celebration of the most beautiful and vibrant community of people. It is intended to highlight the beauty, joy, and resilience our surrounding friends and families bring to the 2SLGBTQI+ community. We hold our histories, stories, and vibrancy within each of us. This energy and strength radiates outwardly, demanding respect and encouraging growth. This mural is intended to represent the notion of sharing our collective beauty with the world, starting with each of us, and expanding as we nurture where we have come from and what we have experienced in order to celebrate who we are.
Title of the Artwork: LGBT je Srbija
Artist Statement:
LGBT je Srbija explores what LGBTQ life is like in Serbia, a Balkan country where homophobia and transphobia are the norm and where queer people risk being beaten if they hold hands in public. Though Belgrade, the capital, provides a protective bubble for LGBTQ Serbians and their friends, life remains dangerous – but this danger has also created a radiant sense of solidarity.
Artist Biography:
Adam Zivo is a writer, photographer, and filmmaker. He is best known for his columns in the National Post, as well as for founding and directing the Love is Love is Love project.
Contact: @adamzivo | www.adamzivo.com
Artist Statement:
Queer Ukraine Speaks is a mobile mural that spotlights LGBTQ Ukrainian activists and gives them an opportunity to challenge negative stereotypes about their country. The mural is composed of portraits and quotes derived from interviews conducted in Kyiv in the spring of 2022. The mural illustrates what’s at stake for Ukraine’s queer community should Moscow’s colonial invasion succeed.
Artist Biography:
Adam Zivo is a writer, photographer, and filmmaker. He is best known for his columns in the National Post, as well as for founding and directing the Love is Love is Love project.
Location: Pride Toronto 2023 StreetFair ArtZone
Pride Toronto 2023’s StreetFairs Art Zone is a vibrant showcase of diverse artistic expressions, featuring an array of visual and performing arts. This dynamic outdoor space brings together talented artists and performers, creating a lively and inclusive celebration of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Description:
Tim Singleton, a Toronto-based designer and illustrator, uses bright, bold colours in his work, heavily influenced by drag culture and underground clubs from the 1970s to the ’90s. His art is featured on limited-edition Pride series cans and apparel, with proceeds supporting Rainbow Railroad, an organization aiding LGBTQI individuals facing potential persecution worldwide, showcasing themes of resilience and empowerment in his pieces. Tim Singleton’s typography design work for Pride Toronto’s Cup will be ongoing through 2026.
Location: Pride Toronto 2023 Main Stage – Nathan Philip Square
Pride Toronto 2023’s Main Stage at Nathan Phillips Square is the epicenter of the festival, featuring an electrifying lineup of renowned artists, musicians, and performers. This iconic stage serves as the heart of the celebration, uniting the 2SLGBTQ+ community and allies with a dynamic showcase of entertainment and unity.
Description:
Pride Toronto 2023 presents the Art Zone Festival featuring Art Battle Toronto. Celebrate 2SLGBTQI+ art with live painting performances by some of Toronto’s premier artists.
Art Battle is a live competitive painting event series celebrating creativity, courage, and community. Painters create their best work in short, timed rounds while the audience votes to decide the winner.
Thousands of audience members in communities worldwide have cast votes for their favorite painters, paintings, and performances, proving that art appreciation is for everyone.
Since 2001, Art Battle has redefined the artistic process and transformed how we experience art—sharing the secrets of artistic talent and creation as a spectator sport. Events are held in 60+ cities around the world, with thousands of participating artists.
Location: Pride Toronto 2023 StreetFair ArtZone
Pride Toronto 2023’s StreetFair ArtZone is a vibrant showcase of diverse artistic expressions, featuring an array of visual and performing arts. This dynamic outdoor space brings together talented artists and performers, creating a lively and inclusive celebration of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Description:
Nuit Blanche in Toronto is transforming the city into an interactive and vibrant art gallery featuring innovative installations and performances across various neighbourhoods. The event attracts diverse audiences, fostering a night of cultural exploration and community engagement.
Pride Toronto’s “Nature’s Tapestry” exhibition at Nuit Blanche 2023 at Hanlan’s Point Beach seamlessly combines the natural world with the theme “Breaking Ground.” A cherished landmark for Toronto’s 2SLGBTQI+ community, the beach, steeped in history from hosting the inaugural Gay Pride celebration in 1971 to embracing naturism, marks a pivotal moment in its journey. This exhibition celebrates the beach’s rejuvenation, intertwining nature with the 2SLGBTQI+ narrative, embodying change, resilience, and unity.
Contact: Pride Toronto: @pridetoronto | www.pridetoronto.com
The ArQuives: @thearquives | https://arquives.ca/
Location: Pride Toronto
Pride Toronto is an organization that champions the LGBTQ+ community by organizing inclusive events, art programs, and affiliate partnerships, fostering diversity, representation, and inclusion. Through its annual Pride Month celebrations, it creates a platform for advocacy, visibility, and community engagement in Toronto.
Description:
Nuit Blanche in Toronto transforming the city into an interactive and vibrant art gallery, featuring innovative installations and performances across various neighborhoods. The event attracts diverse audiences, fostering a night of cultural exploration and community engagement.
Artist Biography:
Sadia Awan, a transdisciplinary artist, employs responsive synthesis to transcend the biological limits of our senses, configuring video synths in the 2d2 installation. This immersive experience serves as a space-time simulator, transforming participants into immaterial reflections of reality and raising inquiries into the interconnected nature of space, time, and transcendental immanence.
Contact: Pride Toronto: @pridetoronto | www.pridetoronto.com
Location: Pride Toronto
Pride Toronto is an organization that champions the LGBTQ+ community by organizing inclusive events, art programs, and affiliate partnerships, fostering diversity, representation, and inclusion. Through its annual Pride Month celebrations, it creates a platform for advocacy, visibility, and community engagement in Toronto.
