TALKING FENCES

In May 2023, XOXO launched an online public competition to find four short phrases that spoke to the spirit of Downview for four fences on the Downsview Lands. We received 137 original submissions for the “Talking Fences” competition. In July 2023, a selection panel of local and city-wide community arts experts chose four winning entries. Lakhvir won with Anishinaabemowin words which translate as “Where are you from?” Evelyne won with “…and still growing.” Glendale won with “embrace kindness.” And Mark won with “see the other side.” Each received a $100 gift certificate to a Downsview business of their choice and saw their words woven into local fences. Every wordsmith who submitted to the competition showed an incredible outpouring of love for Downsview.