Lakeside Pumpkinseed

Location: Lakeshore Road, between Lower Sherbourne and Richardson St.
Date photo taken: 29 July 2020

This image of Toronto is from the block long mural currently to be found on the construction hoarding around the Lakeside Residences site on Lakeshore. By artist Pam Lostracco, the scene reflects both the built city and the nature that surrounds it. Water plants, birds and fish, such as this pumpkinseed, all represent local species. Each is identified by name and rendered actual size, so walking the length of the mural can be an educational experience. The hoarding itself is reflective, so in addition to the city being reflected in the water of the mural, the mural itself also reflects the sky and its neighbour, the Gardiner Expressway. The uneven surface also reflects taillights in a beautiful way at night.

There's Something on the Garage

Location: in laneway between Logan and Ferrier

Date photo taken: 13 February 2017

On August 3 1978, just in time for long-weekend trips to the lake, Piranha hit theatres. I vividly remember seeing this movie and refusing to go swimming for days afterward. These memories return whenever I see this garage, painted by cruz1 (Angel Carrillo) as part of a Wallnoize event back in May 2015. Wallnoize9 brought a number of artists to brighten the walls and garages surrounding the small parkettes running west from Pape Station. Themes were nature, animals, characters, and kid friendly.