Toronto’s ravine system is the foremost defining geography in the city. The forested ravines cover nearly 20% of the city, according to the Guardian. In the words of Robert Fulford, author of Toronto, Accidental City, “they are the heart of the city’s emotional geography, and understanding Toronto requires an understanding of the ravines.” The environmental narrative of the ravine defines my city. My project poses the question: who has the power to define this narrative and why?
My work will culminate in a multi-media website, on which I will document a series of art-based workshops revolving around the ravine system, as well as accompanying scholarly analysis on how fiction and fantasy can redefine urban geographies. Working closely with the organization Park People’s InTO the Ravines series of workshops, I will collaborate with community leaders and organizers in the city to encourage community engagement with Toronto’s ravine systems, as well as emphasizing the ecological and social impact of ongoing colonial governance over this land.
Video:
Live Poster Session:
Thursday, July 29th 1:15-2:30pm EDT