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The Butterfly Effect

Kyle Thornley

Installed August 2024

Stainless steel


Located on the south side of Eglinton Ave W, just west of Elmsthorpe

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The Butterfly Effect is a compelling and timeless sculptural representation of ephemeral butterflies roosting on tree branches - a reminder of the natural world within our urban landscape. The wonder of butterflies inspires reflection on adaptability, cooperation, and diversity. Butterflies have long been symbols of beauty and hope, with the efforts of the caterpillar to emerge from its cocoon exemplifying struggle, tenacity, and resilience - values that underpin the evolution of The Eglinton Way neighbourhood. This transformation is captured in the words of Maya Angelou, “we delight in the beauty of the butterfly but rarely admit the struggles it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” 

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Get to know Kyle!

Kyle Thornley

Blacksmith

About:

British Columbia based artist and blacksmith Kyle Thornley of Metal Mind Forge specializes in custom forged metal work throughout interior British Columbia and across Canada. Kyle began as a certified welder working in steel and fabrication. but working with scrap and recycled materials for artistic and functional purposes pushed him to explore the craft further. He combines traditional techniques and his love for compositional possibilities to breathe life into cold, industrial materials and create  beautiful contemporary works.

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This sculpture was funded by: 

Beginning in 2019, The Eglinton Way Business Improvement Association began to invest in Artwalk, a public art installation on our street. The goal over the next 5 years is to bring 25 of these art installations (sculptures, statures, murals) into the neighborhood. It will be a beautiful place to walk, learn, experience, shop and enjoy.
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