Scratching the Surface Graffiti

Amidst the urban tapestry of Toronto, a powerful narrative unfolds on the side of 1628 Dundas Street West. Here, etched onto the brick facade, is Scratching the Surface. This striking mural by Portuguese artist Alexandre Farto, known as Vhils, is more than just a visual spectacle. It’s a tribute to a group of courageous women who often get overlooked in the annals of Toronto’s history. Scratching the Surface isn’t painted. Instead, Vhils uses a unique bas-relief carving technique. He cuts, drills, and chisels away layers of the building’s surface. This “creative destruction” reveals the rough textures beneath. This artistic approach mirrors the struggles and resilience of the women it portrays. The mural depicts the Portuguese Women Cleaners’ Action, a group formed in 1975. These women, many of whom were mothers and wives, worked tirelessly as cleaners in downtown Toronto’s high-rise office towers. They faced low wages and challenging working conditions. When the Ontario government undermined their efforts to organize for fair pay, they took a stand. Their fight wasn’t just about wages. It was about respect, dignity, and fair treatment for immigrant workers. Scratching the Surface captures the strength and determination of these women. They challenged prejudice and fought for better conditions not only for themselves but for future generations. Their activism paved the way for subsequent labor movements and contributed significantly to the fight for equity in the workplace. Unveiled in October 2021, Scratching the Surface is a collaboration. It was supported by the Little Portugal BIA, the Labour Council, LiUNA Local 183, IUPAT DC 46, and the Portuguese Government. Vhils’s unique artistic process makes the mural an integral part of the building. The women’s story becomes interwoven with the very fabric of the city, ensuring their legacy isn’t forgotten. So, as you stand before Scratching the Surface, take a moment to reflect. Appreciate the artistry and remember the women whose courage and resilience are now permanently etched into Toronto’s history.