“Imagine Together” will transform nine billboards along the outside of CF Toronto Eaton Centre that typically saw advertising into a collection of designs that focuses on the power of collaboration and interconnectedness.
The 18-month long exhibition will feature three diverse and emerging OCAD U artists Raquel Da Silva, Jason Zante and Daria Joyce. The artists were tasked with reflection on their own experiences from the shopping centre, which guided their designs.
The three artists participating in the CF Toronto Eaton Centre Art Corridor are Faculty of Design students from OCAD U. Aligned with CF’s purpose, the Faculty encourages students to create designs that nurture community and empower individuals.
Raquel Da Silva – Raquel is a Toronto-based artist and designer, working primarily in painting and sculptural objects. Her work is focused on creating abstract environments with two and three-dimensional forms and shapes. Raquel’s pieces created for ‘Imagine Together’ are meant to evoke the cultural vibrancy of the city and reflect the energy that it creates to inform, inspire and regenerate.
Jason Zante – Jason is a Filipino Canadian multidisciplinary artist. He infuses vibrant colours in his compositions that depict stillness in time, Philippine culture, and ethereal landscapes. Jason’s pieces created for ‘Imagine Together’ emphasize how art and design influence social change and have the potential to create conversations that matter through captivating visuals.
Daria Joyce – Daria is an illustration artist, creating work that is inclusive, playful, and vibrant, as she aspires to create art that connects and illuminates. Her pieces created for ‘Imagine Together’ reflect the power of CF Toronto Eaton Centre as the heart of Toronto, a destination that brings people together in a visually inspiring environment, creating an emotionally enriching and communal experience.
“CF is committed to creating dynamic, inviting spaces and we recognize the important role art plays in enabling expressive and meaningful places in our buildings and the neighbourhoods we are proud to be a part of,” said Sheila Jennings, General Manager, CF Toronto Eaton Centre. “Our centre is located in the heart of downtown Toronto, serving as a regular meeting place for our engaged student community. It was only natural that we collaborate with young emerging talent to transcend a message of hope, positivity and togetherness through art.”
“OCAD University is dedicated to fostering communities that integrate multiple perspectives and we are inspired by the creativity and passion our students showed in bringing this mission to life,” said Ana Serrano, President and Vice-Chancellor at OCAD University. “We are grateful to partners like Cadillac Fairview for their strong community support and providing a tremendous platform, especially at one of their landmark properties, to serve as a showcase for our students.”
“This exhibit is a great addition to Downtown Yonge, highlighting the cultural significance of this neighbourhood with a positive and inspiring message. It is also important economically: arts and culture are crucial to bringing people back to this area as we re-open, and we are excited to see this art activation showcasing the talent of emerging artists,” says Mark Garner, Chief Operating Office of the Downtown Yonge BIA.
For more information on the CF Toronto Eaton Centre Art Corridor, please visit www.cfshops.com/toronto-eaton-centre.html.
