Art

Hundreds of artists take over Nathan Phillips Square for art fair

Published

4 months ago

July 12, 2024

About 400 artists will showcase their work in Nathan Phillips Square this weekend for one of Canada’s largest, longest-running art shows.

The 63rd Toronto Outdoor Art Fair is a mainstay in the city’s summer event lineup and attracts artists of all stripes, many of whom are hoping to launch their careers.

Toronto visual artist Kit Li is one of them.

“Any artist can apply,” she told CBC Toronto. “They don’t ask you ‘How long have you been practicing art? Have you got any awards?’… What they really believe in is that anyone can make art.”

“They democratize the art world.”

The event, which kicks off on Friday morning, is known for creating an open environment for artists and art enthusiasts alike.

A digital illustration of Honest Ed’s, a beloved discount store that became one of the city’s landmarks, by Toronto-based artist Kit Li. (Kit Li)

“This is where artists launch their careers, sustain their careers and make connections,” the fair’s executive and creative director Anahita Azrahimi said.

Artists joining from NWT and Quebec

“There are no walls. There’s no admission. The artist is right there.”

This year, the fair has partnered with the governments of the Northwest Territories and Quebec to fly out artists for the event.

Azrahimi said national interest grew during the pandemic when artists across the country started to participate in the fair’s programming virtually.

“It is really a showcase of Canadian artists from across the country… and we are really excited about it.”

A variety of works and programs

The art ranges from 2D to 3D works, including photography, paintings, crafts and design.

Artist Stephanie Cloutier will be among those showcasing her work and said that while having a social media presence is important for artists, being able to showcase their work in person is unparalleled.

“It definitely provides artists who work in different mediums to show their work… If you see it on a screen, it doesn’t have the same appeal.”

This artwork by Stephanie Cloutier is an example of her embroidered pieces. (Stephanie Cloutier)

The fair’s programming will also feature art tours, dance and music performances, as well as a children’s program called Budding Art Buyers, where kids can buy a real piece from participating artists for under $20.

“I think Toronto Outdoor is one of the most beautiful gems that Toronto has,” artist Yaw Tony said.

He’s been showing his work at the fair for the last five events.

“It will be amazing for people to come and check it out, see what people have been working on over [the last] few years.”