Concrete Jungle: Toronto’s Not-So-Furry Friends

So, Toronto has become a concrete jungle. Literally. Has anyone else noticed the animal sculptures that dot our city?!? Maybe it’s the inner kid in me, but I’m kind of obsessed with them. There’s something so interesting about the animals frozen in time and juxtaposed with an urban landscape. And while most people walk on by without taking much notice, I’m drawn to these sculptures like a moth to the flame. Yes, curiosity has yet to kill this cat. Here are a few of my faves for your amusement…

What: Tembo by Derrick Stephan Hudson
Where: Commerce Court
Interesting Factoid: Tembo is Swahili for elephant. The Mother elephant photographed here shows strength and loyalty to her children who follow. She is one of the largest bronze elephants in the world and weighs approximately six cars!

What: The Pasture by Joe Fafard
Where: TD Centre
Interesting Factoid: The Pasture is based on the artist’s childhood experiences (namely leisurely walks in pastures) where he observed nature undisturbed. Recognized as one of the most significant public sculptures in Canada, you’ll find the group of seven, life-sized cows relaxing in the grassy courtyard in the financial district. As men and women in suits zip by, these guys are a constant reminder to slow things down a bit…

What: Megaptera by artist George Schmerholz 
Where: 121 King Street W.
Interesting Factoid: Megaptera is the scientific name for humpback whales. This mother and calf (visible from the other side of the sculpture) are made from granite.

What: Woodpecker Column by Dai Skuse and Kim Kozzi  (Fastwürms)
Where: Metro Toronto Convention Centre on Bremner Blvd.
Interesting Factoid: You’re likely to spot the two giant birds (a Pileated Woodpecker and Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker) on the way to a game. They sit on a 30-meter column in what used to be a swamp area filled with decaying trees and indigenous woodpeckers.

What: Remembered Sustenance by Cynthia Short
Where: Metro Hall, on Wellington St.
Interesting Factoid: This group of 19 bronze sculptures (including birds and the dog-rabbit creature I’m mounting in the photo) are wonderfully whimsical and have been created to convey a sense of playfulness. The artist’s hope is that the piece will be enjoyed by children — big kids counts too, right?!

Well, those are all my jungle shares for now. I have a few more faves around the city (like Eldon Garnet’s Equal Before the Law at the Toronto Courthouse and Michael Snow’s Flight Stop at the Eaton Centre) and am still looking for more. Know of any I should check out? I’m on the hunt! Figuratively, of course…