Referencing the dynamic movement of people and light across the skating trail and The Bentway itself, the Expressway’s large columns come alive as visitors move beneath them, the ethereal colours mixing, mingling, and dancing overhead. The Gateway evokes the movement and magic of the northern lights across the sky, which are most vibrant during the dark winter months. The many strands of jewel-toned cords that interlace pay tribute to the diversity of vibrant cultures and peoples that make up Toronto.
The Gateway weaves together art, natural phenomena, the built environment, and community encounters. Like the aurora borealis, the work infuses the space with new intimacy and inspires wonder, reminding us that we are all connected by the city we live in, the winter climate we encounter, and by shared experiences in public space.
The Gateway was selected from nation-wide call for submissions with the support of The Bentway Arts Advisory. Two free public workshops hosted at The Bentway Studio will further explore The Gateway’s approaches to material, astronomical phenomena, and community connection.
- From The Bentway Conservancy
