Granite slabs stand tall. They form artist Jon Sasaki’s “We Are Shaped by the Obstacles We Face”. This sculpture commemorates Terry Fox’s legacy. It stands beside the Toronto Music Garden.
In 1980 Terry Fox began his Marathon of Hope. He ran across Canada to raise cancer awareness. He had one leg amputated because of cancer. This journey captivated the country. It left a lasting legacy.
The Legacy Art Project Toronto spearheaded this project. They envisioned a space to inspire visitors. It would remind them of perseverance. The project received funding from various sources. These included the City of Toronto and the Government of Canada.
The sculpture features a curving landscaped path. One-story-high sculpted granite slabs line it. From the west end, the slabs form Terry Fox’s silhouette. He is depicted mid-stride.
The granite sculptures create an optical illusion. They invite reflection on obstacles as opportunities. The design inspires people to keep pushing forward. It helps them recognize what can be achieved with a positive outlook.
Craig Jarvis is the Volunteer President of Legacy Art Project Toronto. He said the vision is to inspire hope. It should encourage optimism. It should ignite the human spirit. The installation allows people to reflect. It helps them renew and prevail.
The artwork stands as part of the City’s Public Art & Monuments Collection. The design represents Terry’s journey. It spans from the Northern Boreal to the Southern Carolinian regions. Medicinal plants are incorporated along the pathway. They include St. John’s Wort. Sweet Grass symbolizes strength for the Métis people.
Visitors enter from Queen’s Quay. They experience the obstacles in a southwesterly direction. They end at an elevated vantage point. Seated on the bench, the granite impediments converge. They transform into Terry Fox’s silhouette.
The image was inspired by a photograph by Gail Harvey. The artwork intends to invite reflection. It shows how challenges can strengthen us. We can face them bravely like Terry Fox did.
Mayor Olivia Chow says the artwork brings Terry Fox’s memory to life. It does so in an innovative way. It inspires hope. It is for both residents and visitors.
Jack Winberg is the Chair of Waterfront Toronto Board of Directors. He said the project exemplifies civic pride. Generosity brought it to life. It will be enjoyed for generations.
“We Are Shaped by the Obstacles We Face” is a reminder. It shows the power of courage and determination. Terry Fox’s legacy lives on. It inspires all Canadians to go above and beyond.