Pause a moment to soak in the vibrant hues of the Rainbow Piece. This sculpture by Hugh LeRoy adds a splash of colour to York University. Purchased by the university in 1972, the Rainbow Piece has been delighting onlookers for decades.
Hugh LeRoy, born in Montreal in 1939, was a Canadian constructivist artist. He honed his skills at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. There, he studied under Arthur Lismer for five years. LeRoy’s talent was later recognized when he was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Academy in 1975.
LeRoy wasn’t just a sculptor. He also shared his knowledge as a professor emeritus at York University. From 1974 to 2011, he taught drawing, painting, and sculpture.
The Rainbow Piece stands proudly within the reflecting pool near the Scott Library. Its arched tubular elements create a playful visual. The colours dance and shift with the light. Sunlight and wind cause reflections on the water’s surface. These reflections enhance the sculpture’s beauty.
This sculpture is a prime example of LeRoy’s constructivist style. He often used arched tubular forms and applied colours to them. You might see similarities in his other works. For instance, he also created “Four Elements Column” in Lachine, Quebec.
Interestingly, the Rainbow Piece wasn’t LeRoy’s only contribution to Toronto’s art scene. In 1987, he installed The Arc & The Chord at the Toronto Sculpture Garden. This carved wooden sculpture interacted with the natural elements.
Take a closer look at the Rainbow Piece. Notice how the colours might seem faded. Over time, exposure to the elements has gently altered its original vibrancy. But this only adds to the Rainbow Piece’s story. It’s a reminder of the passage of time and the enduring power of art.