If you take a moment to look around, you’ll notice beautiful sculptures, murals, and art installations scattered throughout our district, each one created by talented artists who help shape our city’s character and history. These pieces don’t just add colour and creativity to our streets; they tell stories about the people and places that make Yonge North York special. We hope you’ll take some time to explore them, and maybe snap a few photos along the way.

One Hundred Links Equals One Chain

If you’ve ever passed the northeast corner of Beecroft Road and Park Home Avenue, you’ve likely noticed a sculpture of a small horse and wondered about its story.

This piece, One Hundred Links Equals One Chain, was created by artist Stephen Cruise to honour David Gibson, Ontario’s very first land surveyor from the 1800s. Gibson used a 100-link measuring chain in his work to measure land, an impressive tool for its time.

The sculpture features a majestic Clydesdale horse alongside a bronze apple, representing Gibson’s nearby apple orchard. Cruise took inspiration from historic Gibson family photos dating back to the early 1900s, which included a pony named “Logo,” which he incorporated into the artwork as a nod to the past.

It’s one of my favourite corners of the district, not just for the sculpture itself, but also for the surrounding gardens and tall grasses that make it feel like a little oasis in the middle of the city.

Willowdale Mosaic Mural Project

A more recent addition to the neighbourhood’s public art is the Willowdale Mosaic Mural Project. If you walk along the west side of Yonge Street between North York Boulevard and Upper Madison Avenue, you’ll spot a series of colourful mosaic hearts brightening the cement planters.

Each of the 19 hearts are uniquely designed by Robin Hesse and Cristina Delago. The artists created a neighbourhood survey asking residents why they love the area, and used that feedback to design these inspiring murals that beautifully reflect life in Yonge North York. One features a dog wearing sunglasses, another depicts koi fish swimming in a pond, and another celebrates the iconic willow tree. Together, they showcase all the different ways our community loves Willowdale. 

Created between 2022 and 2023, this project was a collaboration aimed at beautifying the district and celebrating community revival after the challenges of the pandemic, when many local businesses struggled along the Yonge corridor. Today, it stands as a symbol of creativity, resilience, and neighbourhood pride.

Petals of Flight

Our newest addition to the district’s public art is the Petals of Flight mural by Toronto artist Alex Lazich, located on the south-facing wall at Yonge Street and Harlandale Avenue, beside Pizza Pizza.

Unveiled just this month, the vibrant mural brings a fresh burst of colour and creativity to Yonge North York. Lazich’s work blends natural beauty with imagination, encouraging everyone to pause and enjoy the vibrant artwork in a busy part of the district.

This project was made possible through the Yonge North York BIA, the City of Toronto, and 4844 Yonge Street, with support from local students and community members. Stop by and snap a photo with our brand-new #PetalsOfFlight mural!

Take a Stroll and Explore

Art is all around us in Yonge North York, from sculptures and mosaics to fresh new murals. Take a walk through the district, discover these creative landmarks, and see how art continues to bring our community to life.

One Hundred Links Equals One Chain | 40 Park Home Avenue

Willowdale Mosaic Mural Project | West side of Yonge Street, from North York Boulevard to Upper Madison Avenue

Petals of Flight | 4844 Yonge Street