TORONTO.- The Lassonde Art Trail launches this summer, marking the opening of Canada's art trail and a major new contemporary public art experience on Toronto’s waterfront.
The Lassonde Art Trail is a free, year-round outdoor art experience where art, nature, water, and city meet. Across 4 kilometres of trail paths, visitors will encounter curated large-scale public artworks by leading Canadian, Indigenous, and international artists, throughout the landscape of one of Toronto’s most significant new public spaces.
Integrated into Biidaasige Park on Ookwemin Minising island in Toronto’s Port Lands, the Art Trail reflects the transformation of Toronto’s waterfront while engaging broader conversations about environmental renewal, climate resilience, Indigenous relationships to land and water, the role of public art in civic life, and the evolving future of Toronto’s waterfront.
From June through September, artworks will be unveiled in phases across LAT East and LAT West, unfolding over an entire season. Each phase brings new sculptures into public view and invites visitors to return as the Art Trail takes shape across the island.
Launch season
June 2026: LAT East
The launch season begins with works by Alexandre Arrechea, Caroline Monnet, Dean Baldwin Lew, Kara Hamilton, Nadia Belerique, Oluseye, Ryan Gander, Tony Romano, Tracey Emin.
Late July 2026: LAT West
The second phase opens with works by Alexa Kumiko Hatanaka, Hank Willis Thomas, Lisa Hirmer, Ryan Gander, Virginia Overton.
September 2026: Launch Season Finale
The inaugural rollout culminates with Kent Monkman’s highly anticipated first public sculpture and First Sun by Monira Al Qadiri.
Many artworks will remain on view for one to five years, ensuring the trail continually evolves over time. The Art Trail is designed to be experienced by foot, bike, and kayak.
Public programming throughout the launch season will include guided art tours, talks, education programs, and special events, with details announced on an ongoing basis.
The Lassonde Art Trail offers a new way to experience contemporary art in Canada: outdoors, through all four seasons, and in direct relationship with land, water, and public life. Every experience will be unique.
