Art in the Gardens: Sculpture Showcase at Edwards Gardens Draws Crowds
Locals flocked to the scenic grounds to admire works by emerging artists, with several pieces sparking conversations about public art in affluent spaces.
May 14, 2025 at 05:18 • By Alyssa Cheng, Bridle Watch
Visitors to Edwards Gardens this week were greeted by more than just blooming flora — the latest open-air sculpture showcase has transformed the park into an alfresco gallery. The installation, curated by a collective of local and international artists, features over 25 sculptures ranging from modern abstract works to classical reimaginings in bronze and stone. This year's theme, 'Balance and Bloom,' aims to reflect both human connection and natural resilience after years of social disruption.
The exhibit has quickly become a cultural attraction, pulling foot traffic from across the city into the Bridle Path area. Families, tourists, and art lovers have all found moments of quiet reflection among the manicured flower beds and winding paths. The juxtaposition of stone and steel with soft petals and greenery has sparked both contemplation and conversation. Several pieces — including a large ceramic serpent and a kinetic wind harp — have been widely shared on social media.
“Art needs to live where people live,” said lead curator Andre Morel. “By situating these works outside the traditional gallery space, we invite everyone — joggers, dog walkers, children — to engage with creativity without the pressure or exclusivity of indoor exhibits.” The strategy appears successful, with park officials noting a 30% increase in daily visitors since the installation began.
Some of the featured artists are residents of North York, and several installations incorporate materials sourced from nearby demolition sites and repurposed community spaces. One artist used salvaged bricks from an old Bridle Path gatehouse to build a commemorative arch that honors the area’s history while offering a shaded resting point. Another sculptor fashioned a bird-shaped bench from recycled playground parts donated by a local school board.
The event is not only artistic but educational. Daily guided tours led by docents from the Ontario College of Art and Design explain the significance of each piece and the techniques behind them. Children’s workshops held on weekend afternoons allow kids to build their own small sculptures with clay and natural materials, instilling a sense of tactile creativity and environmental awareness.
Businesses surrounding Edwards Gardens have noticed an uptick in footfall and revenue as well. Local cafes and gift shops report stronger weekday sales, and one pop-up espresso cart set up near the garden’s southern gate has nearly sold out every day. The Bridle Path Business Association is already discussing sponsorship opportunities for a follow-up event later this year.
The Toronto Parks Department played a key role in facilitating the installation, ensuring that structural reinforcements didn’t compromise the garden’s sensitive ecosystems. Soil protection mats and underground supports were used to minimize disruption, and daily maintenance crews monitor the sculptures for weather damage or public interference.
While no incidents of vandalism have occurred so far, the exhibit’s organizers have partnered with local security firms to keep watch overnight. Hidden camera systems and motion-triggered lighting ensure the works remain safe after dark. “This is public trust on display,” said Morel. “And so far, the public has responded with care and respect.”
The sculpture showcase will remain open through the end of August, giving residents and visitors plenty of time to stroll among the pieces, ponder their meaning, and enjoy the artistic spirit blooming right alongside the flowers.