Even in the most challenging times, Toronto is a city full of vibrant arts and culture. Although there’s not a ton in the way of major events for the next little while, the city is still celebrating all the things that make Toronto, well, Toronto. Outside of the downtown core, you’ll find a ton of Cultural Hotspots being highlighted this summer. The lineup is an awesome way to promote and celebrate local creativity.

Community-based organizations have partnered with the City of Toronto through Signature and SPARK Projects to bring FREE arts initiatives to community spaces. The lineup includes a variety of mini outdoor festivals, workshops, activities, and events. Oh, and did we mention it’s all completely FREE to participate in or attend?? We think that part is worth saying twice.

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There’s loads of exciting programming lined up, but here are some of the highlights:

Deaf Interiors – This multidisciplinary online exhibition showcases six Deaf artists who just completed a three-month online incubator. The works include compelling demonstrations of the interior world of Deaf culture and activism.

Common Ground Dance Festival – This North York initiative celebrates movement and community through accessible workshops and performances.

In Our Nature – This multidisciplinary public art project is a Scarborough-based collaboration between Mural Routes, the Community Arts Guild, the Equity for Women of Colour, and the Toronto Zoo.

Local Discoveries – This project shines a light on local businesses and restaurants with public art tours and cultural experiences. The focus is on animating public art destinations to encourage folks of Toronto to explore their neighbourhoods. Plus, there will be workshops, talks, performances, tours, and public art displays.

Faces of Frontlines – Reflect on the diversity of the faces of the frontlines through this initiative. The six-week art workshop will result in a mural celebrating frontline workers. Participants will work hand-in-hand with professional mural artists to create the stunning work.

 

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These are just a few of the many exciting projects lined up as part of the Cultural Hotspots program. Dates for everything will become available in late May, but in the meantime, you can take in the full programming lineup here.