Scotiabank Arena Art Collection - Maple Leafs Legacy
A brand new and groundbreaking collaboration between Scotiabank and Sports & The Arts (SATA), the Scotiabank Arena Art Collection has emerged as a testament to the fusion of sports and artistic expression. As the leading sports venue art collection curators in North America, SATA brought their wealth of experience to the forefront of this project. The collection, curated by both SATA and artists selected through an open call to the arts community, stands as a dynamic showcase of creativity and community engagement.
In the heart of Toronto, where the spirit of sports meets the soul of art, Scotiabank Arena has undergone a transformative journey, reimagining its spaces through a vibrant collaboration with the local artist community. Scotiabank Arena’s, new chapter unfolds as the venue boldly embraces the synergy of sports and art.
The inclusivity of the Scotiabank Arena Art Collection is evident in the open call for artists extended to the arts community through SATA. This initiative provided a platform for artists, both emerging and established, to contribute to the transformation of the arena's spaces. The call for submissions invited a diverse range of artistic interpretations, ensuring that the collection reflects the multifaceted nature of Toronto's vibrant arts scene.
Scotiabank Arena's visionary project aimed to break the traditional mold of sports and entertainment venues by infusing a distinctive local flair. The collaboration with Toronto-based artists, like myself (Jason Jay), was a deliberate move to celebrate the diverse and dynamic artistic community that thrives in the city. By engaging with these local creatives, the arena sought to create a cultural tapestry that resonates with the people who call Toronto home.
I was lucky enough to be selected as an artist within this collection with my piece Maple Leafs Legacy.
"Maple Leafs Legacy" is a unique piece that serves as a tribute to the legendary players who have graced the ice for the Toronto Maple Leafs throughout the years. This collage seamlessly blends that feeling of vintage hockey cards, meticulously collected from different eras, to create a visual narrative of the team's illustrious history. Each hockey card acts as a miniature time capsule, preserving the faces and accomplishments of the Maple Leafs' iconic players. From the early pioneers of the sport to the modern-day stars, the cards are arranged in an artful mosaic, showcasing the evolution of the team over the decades.
The aim of this piece is to celebrate the unwavering spirit of the Toronto Maple Leafs franchise. This heartfelt homage to the team's past serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring love and passion for the game that binds generations of fans together. Leafs Forever.
In embracing the local artist community and championing pieces like "Maple Leafs Legacy," Scotiabank Arena has successfully redefined itself. It's no longer just an arena; it's a cultural hub, a space where the city's identity is not only celebrated but actively shaped by the very people who call it home. This initiative stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, illustrating how art has the ability to transform spaces and unite communities. The Scotiabank Arena Art Collection, born out of collaboration between Scotiabank, Sports & The Arts, and the vibrant arts community, is a testament to the transformative power of art. It is a celebration of Toronto's cultural diversity, a visual symphony that enriches the spectator experience beyond the confines of the playing field. As the collection continues to evolve, it stands as a living testament to the enduring connection between sports, art, and the communities they inspire.