Most people avoid alleys. I, on the other hand, gravitate towards them like a moth to a flame. I find the streets nestled between the main arteries of Toronto to be some of the most fascinating. To me, they are transient art galleries. There one day, gone the next. And perhaps that’s why they’re so appealing to photograph.
I have mixed feelings about graffiti/street art. I love the beautiful murals some artists create, but I’m not a fan of tagging. And I definitely don’t like the vandalism local businesses are left to deal with (according to the city, it is the business owner’s responsibility to clean it up). I do think many graffiti artists are incredibly talented though. I find myself constantly admiring their creativity and ability to convey uncompromising and provocative social commentary through their art form. Here are a few of my international faves: Herakut, Jenks, Baer, KEMR and Banksy.
As for local talent, I snapped these pics around Queen West:
Let me know where I should head to next!
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