Welcome to the Riverside art project as part of CafeTO 2024.
The project was conceived by the Riverside BIA in collaboration with Toronto artists Barira Tahin, Shahrzad Zadmajid, and Gilda Asadi Arbabi.
The project brought public art to local public spaces including CafeTO barricades within Riverside’s 10 blocks and the local Riverside Community Garden space, to provide awareness and education about local birds, pollinators and plants that are important in our community, as well as celebrate the vibrant Riverside commuity.
You can find all the project information below including photos, artist statements and a map of the locations to find the art.
“Riverside Roots & Wings” art by Barira Tahsin
Rendering of “Roots & Wings” art
Artist Statement
I was inspired by the beauty and ecological importance of the local animals, plants, and pollinators found in the Riverside neighbourhood and the Queen Garden Centre. My artistic process reflects spending a considerable amount of time observing and documenting these microcosms of larger natural ecosystems. Throughout this series, I aim to celebrate the variety of flora and fauna and draw attention to the importance of local pollinators and the environments they need to thrive. It serves as a reminder to protect and value nature and inspires others to appreciate and nurture the environment close to home.
About the Artist
Barira Tahsin is a dynamic and multidisciplinary artist whose work aims to capture the natural landscape and physical environment through a combination of painting, digital media, and photography. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto and plans on exploring new themes, techniques, and technologies in her artistic journey. Blending her architectural background with a passion for visual arts and storytelling, she not only highlights the aesthetic beauty of environments but explores themes of sustainability and the intersections of nature and humanity. More at @bariratahsin (IG)
“Four Season Bird” art by Shahrzad Zadmajid and Gilda Asadi Arbabi
Photo credit: Riverside BIA
Artist Statement
“We are thrilled to present our mural project, “Four Season Bird,” where Canadian birds are adorned with traditional Persian motifs on each bird’s body. This design beautifully reflects Persian immigrants’ profound love and care for Canada. Symbolic yellow leaves dance around the artwork, symbolizing love and a supportive, family-oriented culture. The mural features vibrant colors that embody happiness and joy in each season, intertwined with flowers symbolizing growth and youth. Branches and snow motifs add a touch of peace and elegance, seamlessly blending nature into the cultural narrative.”
Check out this video of the full four-sided mural.
About the Artist
Shahrzad Zadmajid: My name comes from a Persian tale, One Thousand and One Nights, where Shahrzad narrates compelling stories every night and builds on them the next night. I’m also a storyteller. I’ve been telling stories for over 25 years now in watercolor, acrylic, and oil paint, on fabric, metal, and wood. I tell mostly of animals, lakes, and trees. In my stories, I try to capture the beauties of the world in brush streaks and leave them for others to seize. I hope you take interest in my stories and let your eyes feast on my catches! More at @shahrzadart.ca
Gilda Arbabi: I am Gilda Arbabi, a graduate in industrial design from ART University of Tehran. With over two decades of experience in watercolor and acrylic painting, I have participated in numerous exhibitions. My passion for art and design drives me to explore new ideas and experiences continually. Working on large-scale projects has taught me to think big and has broadened my vision, enabling me to approach creativity with greater scope and ambition. More at @gildaartgallery
THANKS GO TO…
The Riverside BIA and the City of Toronto’s CaféTO Dining Districts Grant Program, Stream 1 for funding support of this project.