Nestled within the expansive urban landscape of the University of Toronto's downtown St. George Campus is a captivating art installation known as "Wa Wa." This installation transforms the Sir Daniel Wilson Quad, a hidden outdoor oasis surrounded by historic architecture that houses student residences, a dining hall, and classrooms.

The Sir Daniel Wilson Quad presented a unique challenge: how to liberate the space from its rigidity while operating within tight time and budget constraints. The solution involved scattering over 130 convex mirrors in a precisely arranged 40-meter diameter ring within the courtyard. This innovative approach aimed to challenge and redirect the existing conditions of the site.

Differing in sizes, these mirrors were strategically placed on the grass, effectively bringing the elements of the sky—clouds, sun, and sky—down to the ground. The arrangement, reminiscent of large water droplets, harmoniously blended with nature, softening the Quad's atmosphere.

The title, "Wa Wa," draws inspiration from the Japanese philosophy of "Wa," signifying harmony. The installation's intent was to reimagine the Quad as an inclusive public space, inviting visitors to engage with it on a deeper level and fostering a harmonious connection with nature.

As an immersive and unexpected intervention, "Wa Wa" encourages visitors to perceive the space in new ways, offering a moment of pause, spontaneity, and playfulness. In its subtlety, the installation unfolds as a special and captivating addition to the university environment, inviting all to experience a harmonious blend of art and nature.

Title: Wa Wa
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Use: Art Installation
Completed: 2017
Photographer: Nanne Springer