Since Great Gulf’s 76-storey, One Bloor East, building reached its 257-metre height in 2015, the Hariri Pontarini-designed condominium held an inauguration in May of the project’s public art installation: Safe Hands.
“Great Gulf takes its commitment to public art seriously and are confident that this work of art will enhance the city and be recognized on a global platform,” said Geoff Mathews Great Gulf Senior Vice President, High Rise Development. “Public art plays an important role in shaping the character of a city. It celebrates culture, history, architecture and provides civic spaces for citizens to enjoy.”
The celebration took place in the building’s two-storey 75th floor southwest penthouse. Special guests included Deputy Mayor Michael Thompson, Ward 11 Councillor Mike Layton and other members of the community.
A selection jury, made up of art experts and members from Great Gulf — appointed by the City of Toronto, held an international competition due to the prominence of the project.
Designed by UK-based artist Ron Arad, and produced locally by Stephen Richards of Streamliner, the dynamic sculpture features a pair of twisting metallic arms with colourful connecting joints. The outer surface of the sculpture is stainless steel fabricated from flat sheet, rolled, welded and polished.
Applying over 150 Tons of pressure, and selective application of heat to make the cylinder buckle and dent, created the crushed lower sections. The total weight of the two towers is approximately above 70,000 LBS with all assembly constructed over a two-year period in the GTA.
Located at the intersection of Yonge and Bloor, the sculpture’s two 88 ft and 82 ft tall freestanding towers wrap around each other vertically without touching.
