Do you find graffiti as inspiring and visually-arresting as we do?
Graffiti takes neglected and out-of-the-way places in the city and makes them marvellous and magical. Plus, it’s an art form that, like drag, originated from a marginalized community and is all about subverting convention and expectation. And, also like drag queens – it’s colourful, surprising, and larger-than-life!
One of the best examples of this is Graffiti Alley right here in Toronto. A surprising number of locals aren’t aware of this place; this alley – or series of alleys – which is just south of Queen Street West, running west from Spadina Avenue to Portland Street; it has some of the most amazing murals and graffiti installations we’ve ever seen. They depict faces, places, people and stories from everyday life – hidden jewels decorating the city’s forgotten spaces.
This cluster of artwork has evolved over time to gain more and more notoriety in the artworld, and among the art-curious. This story from BlogTO Graffiti Alley might be Toronto’s most unexpected tourist attraction gives a good history of this landmark, and chronicles its commentary on society and the legitimization of street art in the city.
You will commonly see guided tours here, along with the murals being used in film and music videos. And not surprising- what a thought-provoking backdrop!
All types and styles co-exist together on these walls and often seem to interact and comment on one another by their proximity.
Bring your camera, because you will want to capture some of this incredible street art. This is by far the largest concentration of graffiti in the city, but there are mind-boggling murals all over Toronto. But you have to keep your eyes peeled – sometimes they’re tricky to spot!
Graffiti Alley is really one of Toronto’s most unique attractions. It’s growing in popularity and is a real draw for locals and for tourists alike.
Fun fact: recently Graffiti Alley ice cream was launched, for delivery in Toronto. It is creamy and sugar free- a welcome treat for those with discriminating taste looking for a sweet and simple experience. Much like its namesake, this ice cream is colourful, fun and doesn’t follow convention.
Beyond being a tourist or visitor attraction, think of how your life would be filled with colour, conversation and inspiration if you could wander when ever the mood strikes through Graffiti Alley if you lived in the hood? If you live nearby, it’d be easy to go and enjoy anytime you like; show your friends, snap some Instagram pics and see what’s changed!
If you’re an art lover, also be sure to visit some of the city’s best! As with Graffiti Alley, sometimes the most out-of-the-way spaces, are the most magical: Art Galleries Are The Vanguard Of Emerging Toronto Neighbourhoods.
Just 7 minutes away by wandering feet, is our new listing at The Phoebe! We call it:
Big City Beauty At The Phoebe Condo Near Queen West On Beverley Street – offered at $499,000!
There’s ease, effortlessness, and convenience that accompanies the privilege of living in the centre of the city, where pretty much everything you need is out your front door and around the corner. This sun-drenched 1bed 1bath upgraded suite of approximately 606 square feet is guaranteed to tick a lot of your shelter wishes, wants and needs!
Want to book a private viewing? Contact james@urbaneer.com!
Thanks for reading!
~ Steven and the Urbaneer Team
Steven Fudge, Sales Representative
& The Innovative Urbaneer Team
Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage – (416) 322-8000
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*Have you seen Steven’s newest site Houseporn.ca? It’s his Student Mentorship site on Canadian architecture, landscape, design, products and real estate!