Kent Monkman to Create Public Art Installation at Lassonde Art Trail

PUBLISHED: SEPTEMBER 24, 2023

The Lassonde Art Trail has achieved a significant milestone [PDF] with the selection of internationally-renowned Cree artist Kent Monkman for its inaugural permanent public art installation. Together with the Pierre Lassonde Family Foundation, Waterfront Toronto has long envisioned a contemporary art trail to complement the large network of new parks being created thanks to tri-government investment in the Port Lands. The selection of Kent Monkman is sure to make this new trail, the Lassonde Art Trail [LINK], and Toronto’s waterfront a leading arts and culture destination. 

An artist’s rendering of the new island and the Lassonde Art Trail.

Enhancing the cultural vibrancy of the waterfront is at the heart of Waterfront Toronto’s mission. At the beginning of the planning process, we create a strategy for each waterfront district which results in a distinct public art master plan for each site. Through these plans, we embed public art into the everyday life of our new neighbourhoods, creating a sense of place and contributing to lively, inspiring communities. Through the Villiers Island and Keating West Public Art Master Plan, we created a vision for a free, open-air route that would be purpose-built to showcase both permanent and temporary works.

We were thrilled with the Pierre Lassonde Family Foundation’s visionary $25-million gift to realize this trail. The art trail will be operated and curated by the Lassonde Art Foundation, and will include two permanent pieces, as well as a rotating cycle of contemporary installations from local, national and international artists. The trail is scheduled to open in 2026.

The announcement of a visionary gift for the creation of an outdoor public art trail in 2022, with Mayor John Tory, Toronto City councillors, members of the Lassonde family and Stephen Diamond, Chair of Waterfront Toronto. 

“With all its beauty and wonder, it’s no small feat being a companion to the lake, but The Lassonde Art Trail will be just that. It promises to be a magnetic destination for those seeking immersive arts and culture experiences all within a network of new parks and public spaces that Waterfront Toronto is delivering through the Port Lands Flood Protection project.” - George Zegarac, President and CEO, Waterfront Toronto

The Lassonde Art Trail will be a world-class public art destination, attracting millions of residents and visitors to the new island.  It builds on and continues the transformational work being done by Waterfront Toronto – with investment from all governments – to create a connected, enriching, and vibrant waterfront for all.

For more information about this public art commission visit latfoundation.org [LINK].