Estimated Value: $3,500 "The Steps" is a re-imagining of an iconic shared space from the 80s-90s in Toronto’s gay village that was later removed in 2005. Commissioned by Pride Toronto to represent Toronto’s queer history and legacy, I thought of The Steps, which was noted to be a safe heaven for many people. I first read about The Steps in "Marvellous Grounds”, a counter-archival anthology that focused on immigrant, disabled, and folks of colour’s points of view. Stories often omitted from Canada’s written history. Through this piece. I re-introduce and re-imagine what a shared space like this could look like in the future and emphasize how much a space like this would thrive if it were rebuilt in an inclusive manner today. [image description] Floating disk-like staircase featuring seven steps or "disks to represent a step" wrapped in ribbon containing each colour of the pride flag. From top to bottom, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Violet-- then the stairs are met with a ramp. Shaped like a pyramid but circular and smooth. Curving to the shape of the ramp, the ribbon continues from Violet to Brown Black, Pastel Blue, Pastel Pink, and white. Scattered atop the steps and ramp are 22 people of all shapes, sizes, colours and disabilities co-existing and sharing the reimaged Steps whilst doing various activities like relaxing, reading, drinking bubble tea, having conversations in ASL, dancing etc.

Jenelle Lewis

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Jenelle Lewis (she/her) is a queer multidisciplinary artist born and raised in Jane & Finch, and currently resides in downtown Toronto. She is moved by the notion that a photo holds one thousand words and strives to emulate the highest level of depth and emotional storytelling that can possibly be delivered through a single image within each of her illustrations. Her boundless creativity takes her on journeys illustrating expressive comics, posters, portraiture, painting murals, graphic designing, and organizing community focused events ensuring her unique endeavours breathe with life, bounce with comic-like wonder, and radiate restorative energies.