In her debut “Take 5” column, Executive Editor Elizabeth Pagliacolo unveils a personal compilation of design inspirations. This inaugural collection showcases a spectrum of beloved creations, from the whimsical ingenuity of urban parks to the profound impact of artistic retrospectives, the playful charm of product innovations, and the timeless elegance of architectural masterpieces. Her selections offer readers an intimate perspective on the designs that have captured her imagination and appreciation.
This edition explores both public and personal realms of design. It delves into the thoughtful and often humorous approach to landscape architecture seen in projects like Toronto’s Love Park, a creation that imbues public spaces with genuine warmth and character. The article also revisits a celebrated art exhibition, highlighting the masterful works of a renowned photographer. Furthermore, it shines a light on unique product designs that blend everyday utility with artistic flair, and pays homage to an architectural marvel that seamlessly integrates historical context with modern vision. Through these diverse examples, the column articulates a comprehensive appreciation for design across various scales and disciplines.
Whimsical Urban Landscapes and Joyful Public Art
This “Take 5” journey commences with a tribute to the imaginative public spaces conceptualized by CCxA, formerly known as Claude Cormier et Associés. Toronto’s Love Park, with its distinctive heart shape, exemplifies Cormier’s ability to infuse urban environments with a sense of wonder and affection. This park, situated near the city’s downtown waterfront, reflects a broader design philosophy characterized by both sincerity and wit. Cormier’s legacy, which includes numerous contributions to Toronto’s urban fabric, consistently demonstrated a playful yet profound approach to landscape architecture. His previous works, such as a dog-and-cat themed fountain and a beach adorned with pink umbrellas adjacent to an industrial sugar factory, underscore his innovative spirit.
Cormier’s unique queer perspective enriched both landscape and urban design. A particularly cherished work from his studio was “18 Shades of Gay,” an installation that transformed Sainte-Catherine Street in Montreal’s Gay Village into a canopy of vibrant, multicolored balloons. While this captivating display has since been dismantled, its memory continues to evoke a profound sense of joy among those who experienced its radiant glow, demonstrating the enduring impact of thoughtful and celebratory public art. These projects highlight how design can shape not just physical spaces, but also emotional experiences, fostering community and delight.
Artistic Narrative and Enduring Architectural Grandeur
The column then shifts its focus to the fine art world, specifically highlighting the compelling photographic works of Jeff Wall. His monumental retrospective, “Jeff Wall Photographs 1984–2023,” currently captivating audiences at MOCA in Toronto until March 22nd, celebrates one of Canada’s most esteemed contemporary artists. The exhibition begins on the museum’s ground floor with “Children,” a series of striking circular light-boxes that capture children in dynamic, close-up moments, creating an immediate and engaging experience for viewers. Ascending to the upper levels, the exhibition expands to showcase the Vancouver-based artist’s signature large-format prints, which command entire wall spaces, drawing the audience into meticulously constructed visual narratives.
Wall is recognized for his exceptional ability to craft unsettling yet mesmerizing narratives, transforming ordinary scenes into profound cinematic tableaus. His staged photographs depict everything from epic military confrontations and gothic vampiric scenes to intimate domestic settings, as well as carefully arranged natural landscapes. A notable example is a multi-panel sequence that culminates in a maze, where the figures exploring it are shown in various states of revelation and contemplation. Each image, regardless of its seeming spontaneity or naturalism, is a testament to Wall’s precise choreography, masterfully blurring the distinctions between candid observation and deliberate artistic construction. This meticulous approach underscores how art can challenge perceptions of reality and invite deeper reflection on the human condition.