Six new small-scale artworks added to traffic boxes throughout Burlington

The City of Burlington’s annual Local Artist Program has once again commissioned six local artists to create a collection of small-scale artworks throughout the community.

The art has been installed on traffic control signal boxes throughout the city.

Artists were encouraged to submit thought-provoking artwork that focused on inspiring and uplifting the Burlington community. This artwork forms an urban art gallery that can be experienced by residents while they go about their day.

“This is one of our most popular programs with both local talent and residents. We are so pleased to showcase Burlington artists and share their inspiring designs,” said Angela Paparizo, manager of Arts and Culture.

“It’s our hope that this year’s new additions to this urban gallery continue to bring people together to share common experiences and explore new ideas. We encourage resident to look for these installations in their communities or enjoy them online.”

Here are the artists and where each of the installations is located

Teadio, Love is everywhere (Beware) – New St. and Shoreacres Rd.

“Love is everywhere (Beware)” is based on street artist Banksy’s work. It is construed as a comradely comeback to his “Love is in the bin” intervention art, which in turn is based on another piece of his own art, “Girl with balloon.” In my work, by filling the scene with balloons, some sprouting out of soil, others already released, I want to strengthen the “there is always hope” thought and help downhearted onlookers visualize hope and its rhythm. The girl in my image borrows Canadian attributes, wearing a winter jacket as opposed to a summer dress. She looks down, focused on the new hope that germinates out of ground, as opposed to looking up to balloons take wing.

Lara Kirschner, Energized – New St. and Appleby Line

Staying focused on the positive these days can be easier said than done. Every time I get out for a walk in the forest there is something about the smells of cedars and forest vegetation, the light and the fresh air in my lungs that makes it so much easier to see things with a healthier perspective. It’s so inspiring I often come home full of artistic energy and paint something I’ve seen on a walk. My design reflects the importance of having accessible natural settings for the community to reset, reflect and recharge emotionally. Forests well represent community support and teamwork, which we need to thrive right now.

Hope Flynn, Summer Breeze – Lakeshore Rd. near Joseph Brant Hospital

When you think of Burlington, the first thing that pops into most people’s minds is the waterfront. In my opinion, one of the most beautiful scenes in Ontario. The dog exploring the park represents people exploring Burlington events such as Sound of Music, Ribfest, etc. There is always something new to explore in Burlington. Summer Breeze represents the hope that we can explore the beauty of Burlington, enjoy life and appreciate the moment we have on earth.

Elizabeth Videka-Beaulieu, Kindness – Prospect St. and Pearson St.

The last few years have been trying for both individuals and communities. While it can become blindingly overwhelming at times to focus on the strife, I have found it crucial to recognize and celebrate the ways in which we have come together. “Kindness” is a visual representation of some of the quiet moments of unity I have witnessed in the Burlington community. The hope is that the images throughout the mural will remind those who view it, that no act of kindness is ever too small.

Darlene Duncan, Always on the Lookout – Upper Middle Rd. and Cavendish Dr.

The mural concept stems from my love of birdwatching, bird photography and painting and sketching birds. For many years, especially the last two years during the pandemic, I’ve been watching birds around my neighbourhood. In the winter months birdwatching is something I can do from inside my home and during the rest of the year it can be done in my own neighbourhood. In Burlington we’re fortunate to have many parks and easy access to green space.

Andres Soto, Equilibrium – Walkers Line and Thomas Alton Blvd.

The bicycle is part of the road and of our city, it is not just a vehicle, it is a way of life. Equilibrium is the relationship that balance has as a fundamental axis to move forward – not only on the bicycle but also in life. Balance as a way of life.