Night-Long Art Exhibition Captivates Toronto

It’s like Lionel Richie always said – “All night long.”

When the fog descended on the University of Toronto Saturday night one of the more interesting multi-installation exhibits to hit the city in some time began its run.

Nuit Blanche began in Paris four years ago on September 30, and the concept was so well received that Mayor David Miller decided to start another version in his city.

“In a city of newcomers, a city where people can literally trace their family heritage to every country in the world, arts and culture is the one way that we all become Torontonians together,” said the Mayor at the opening ceremonies.

The event is an all night art show that takes place in three zones across Toronto. Those three zones are home to 143 individual displays, and they range from Japanese artist Fujiko Nakaya’s man-made fog to a Cuban artists Orwellian statement about the Cuban government.

“I’m studying political science at York University,” said attendee Tom States.

“From an artistic perspective I think it’s kind of simple, but from a political perspective the messages are complex.”

Some of the displays are located in curious spots, including 11 blocks of ice inside a Toronto car wash.

“It’s a piece that is about a young teenager … who was found frozen to death outside the city of Saskatoon,” said artist Rebecca Belmore.

Though much of the art might be seen as off the beaten path, Miller said it’s all extremely valuable.

“It’s about our talent, we’re finally recognizing how talented Torontonians are.”

Nuit Blanche goes until 7am Sunday, and though public transit in Toronto stops service before 2am, shuttle buses will be running to and from the three sites. They all depart from the Royal Ontario Museum.

For more on Nuit Blanche, click here.