The PATCH Project installs permanent and temporary art in underused spaces, like construction sites or empty storefronts, that strengthen community ties, and beautify the streetscape while building the capacity of emerging artists to exhibit in the public realm. They work to improve the urban experience for local residents and visitors alike, while using the proceeds to fund community arts programming for youth in some of the city’s most underserved communities through their host agency – The STEPS Initiative.
Through a collaboration with PATCH, the Riverside BIA is excited to animate a few of our empty and transitioning storefronts, beginning with the Riverside’s ArtFEST. The lead PATCH Artist for this project is Melissa Luk, an east-ender who completed a Riverside mural in 2013, also supported by the BIA. Accompanying Melissa is artist Emanuel Ciobanica. Melissa’s style is whimsical and poignant often creating understated references to the location of her work – an ideal match for Riverside’s historical and community-oriented neighbourhood.
We invite you to come and watch the creation process of this new work, during a live art painting to take place during ArtsFEST, between Boulton and Grant street on the north side of the Queen Street East.