Subculture

New works of public art on TTC’s Spadina extension and in its renovated stations breathe soul into the daily commuter slog

The screeching of the subway. The throngs packed into the morning streetcar. The time spent in the dark underbelly of the city, surrounded by weary commuters and ads on every wall.

At times, there’s little to love about transit in Toronto. But in those claustrophobia-inducing moments, public artwork offers a breath of fresh air.

“As a user of the TTC I experience spaces that are overcrowded, worn down and increasingly filled with more and more ads trying to sell me something,” says Toronto photographer Robert Burley. “Public art is a welcome element, celebrating the human spirit in places where the soul is challenged.”

In the rush of a morning commute, it’s easy to miss the artwork found throughout the TTC system. But even more is on the way — public art is being incorporated into all six stops on the upcoming Spadina subway extension.

It’s a “real celebration of culture” tying the underground urban network to the world above, says Adrian Piccolo, chief architect in the TTC’s engineering department.

Here is a look at some of the projects across the city.

Dufferin Station Unveiled late last year, a colourful pixel design covers the walls of a modernized Dufferin Station, first opened back in 1966. Design firm spmb, led by Eduardo Aquino and Karen Shanski, developed the eyecatching design, which Piccolo...

Coxwell and Woodbine Stations Both stations on the east end of the Bloor-Danforth line are under construction to make them accessible. In the meantime, hoarding surrounds part of each station, but the dreary construction areas received a facelift this...

Certain photos reproduced with the permission of the Toronto Transit Commission. Spadina subway extension Public artwork is being incorporated into all six stops on the Spadina subway extension. Styling and artists vary for each station, and designs could include integrated artwork in the walls, finishes and floors, Piccolo says...

Glencairn Station Starting this year, the station’s skylight — leaking and worn after 35 years of use — will be refreshed with a new design from its original artist, Rita Letendre. According to the TTC, Letendre was commissioned to reinterpret the...

Union Station New artwork unveiled while the transit hub continues to undergo renovations has been controversial, with many dubbing the dark designs “depressing.” But it’s still an eye-catching installation, with a 150metre screen of two-metre-high...