This past November saw the installation of a public art project that will change neighbourhoods across Toronto. In 2008 the Toronto Transit Commission invited artists to participate in the St. Clair Avenue West Transit Improvements Project (SCW) Public Art Program to provide visual art for the, then, almost-constructed dedicated transit line along St. Clair Avenue West. The streetcar stops adorned with art panels extent from Yonge St. to Keele St. As avid supporters of Toronto’s public transit development plan “Transit City” we were more than flattered, delirious at the idea of our artwork sharing the street with a light-rail transit line. Of the two designs we submitted, both were awarded the honor of their very own street car stop. Sally was awarded one commission for a design called “here today, gone tomorrow” which was installed at the Earlscourt Ave. platform and the other commission was awarded to Aaron Oussoren and Sally McCubbin for their collaborative work “One Among Many” which is at Arlington Ave. After two years, many drafts, endless emails and lessons learned we are still delirious at the idea of our artwork sharing the street with citizens, streetcars, locals, commuters, traffic and bikes. It’s a brilliant opportunity and a two year story that we won’t soon forget. Click on either image for further coverage of each project.
Here Today, Gone Tomorrow - Earlscourt Ave. Streetcar Stop - Toronto
One Among Many - Arlington Ave. Streetcar Stop - Toronto
After two years in progress, the installation day was climactic to say the least. After studying the imagery and knowing the installations inside out and backward, we were still a little startled by them in their finished context. Satisfied and a little amazed. Thank you to our posse of moms, sisters and friends that joined us to cheer on the installation, your support is so sincere and touching.
I must say, it feels nice to know, for once, where our artwork lives, how it looks, and have the chance to visit it when we want. During the days we were mounting the project, I eves dropped first hand feedback from streetcar riders. . . so far so good.
Each panel was hand lifted and fit into the armature.
This maneuver took a year off my life.
When the sun is low, it projects the work onto the sidwalk.
Nice shot, thanks Beth.
