Builder gets boost from kids' art group
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100 local children contribute to hoarding art mural unveiled in St. James Town
A vibrant, abstract new construction hoarding mural created by 100 local children was unveiled in St. James Town, marking the launch of a unique public art initiative led by youth arts organization Art City in partnership with Medallion Corp.
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Joined by City Councillor Chris Moise, the Medallion Corporation team, Art City Executive Director, Heather Wilson, and over 30 young artists, the unveiling celebrated both creativity and community collaboration.
The mural adorns the construction hoarding that wraps around the future site of a 51-storey purpose-built rental building by Medallion Corporation that is estimated to have a completion date of fall 2028. It represents the first phase of a broader initiative to incorporate children’s artwork into city-building efforts across Toronto.
Medallion is itself a privately owned real estate development and property management company specializing in residential subdivisions and apartment communities.
“We have so many talented young people here in St James Town, who can often be overlooked,” said Ward 13 – Toronto Centre councillor Chris Moise. “I’m so happy that we’re actually showcasing their talents.”
“This project is about more than art,” said Heather Wilson, executive director of Art City. “It’s about giving young people a role in shaping the city and providing meaningful education opportunities while boosting their confidence. When you work with Art City, you’re commissioning a unique piece of public art while directly supporting programming that serves families in St. James Town.”
The abstract mural, which reflects the children’s interpretation of Toronto’s cityscape, was created under the artistic direction of OCAD grad Sarah Klawiter. It is the result of weeks of workshops and creative sessions hosted by Art City.
Yvonne Yorke, senior property manager at Medallion Corporation, emphasized the value of community partnerships in creating meaningful spaces for young people:
“Community spaces for children are so important. And Art City is a place that provides so much more than art lessons, it helps kids build confidence and discover their point of view. The mural is not just artwork, it’s the result of an educational process that builds life skills.
“We’re so proud to work with Art City, and we encourage other developers, agencies, and organizations commissioning public art to do the same. Children should have a voice in city building and see themselves reflected in their community. What better way to do that than through art?”
Founded 25 years ago, Art City has been a creative cornerstone for youth in St. James Town. This initiative is part of a push to expand the organization’s reach, reduce its growing waitlist, and inspire more developers to collaborate with community arts groups for impactful public art projects.
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