Give Me Moore

April 6, 2017 · by publicartoftoronto · in Sculpture. ·

Two Large Forms, 1969
LOCATED: The Art Gallery of Ontario (317 Dundas St W)
ARTIST: Henry Moore (1898-1986)
WEBSITE: https://www.henry-moore.org/
Copyright 2017, Public Art of Toronto. All rights reserved.

The other issue with being in an outside art installation in an urban setting is that neighbourhoods change. Downtown Toronto is no different. Old buildings get torn down, while newer and bigger ones go up. Gentrification is always looking for the bigger, better building. Though it is an icon in the neighbourhood, Two Large Forms is not immune to these changes. The result being that the piece is becoming dwarfed, not only by the new construction in the community but by Frank Gehry’s redesign of the AGO’s façade. As impossible as it may have seemed back in 1974 when it was first installed, Two Large Forms now fades into the background.

The AGO has taken note of the effect the changes have on the installation and is working to rectify the issue. They are moving Two Large Forms.

Don’t panic. Put down the pitchforks. It’s not going far.

Two Large Forms is being relocated behind the AGO in Grange Park as part of the 11-million dollar makeover to the plaza. Moore’s work is going to become the centerpiece of the revitalized green space. This change befits the statue’s status as an iconic piece of art and Moore’s original intent for his sculptures. The environment at the corner of Dundas and McCaul is largely static. The energy in Grange Park will be ever changing. The organic shaping of the piece will be complimented by trees, shrubbery, and landscaping, all things that Moore drew inspiration from when working. Finally, the piece will be viewed through an ever-changing landscape of light, seasons, weather and terrain as opposed to car exhaust and cranky tourists.

Not everyone may agree with the move, but I honestly can’t help but think Henry Moore would be happy with the change.