TORONTO, 2016-May-11 — /Travel PR News/ — On May 10, 2016, Toronto Pearson International Airport presented The Book – a painted steel sculpture – to the City of Mississauga. Aptly located at Celebration Square near the Central Library, this public art piece depicts an open book with two pages torn from its spine appearing to blow in the wind, animating the space for community members to freely enjoy.
“I would like to recognize Hillside Media Communications Ltd. and our colleagues from the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) for generously donating The Book by Ilan Sandler to be part of the City of Mississauga Public Art Collection, which will be proudly displayed at Celebration Square for all residents and visitors to appreciate and enjoy,” said City of Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “I have always said Mississauga is a city that shines – we shine because Council takes action to support local artists, our creative sectors and works to elevate Mississauga’s reputation as a leading cultural destination.”
Toronto Pearson is proud to support its neighbouring communities, many of which are home to the more than 40,000 people who work at the airport. This donation to the City of Mississauga represents one of the many ways that Toronto Pearson connects with and gives back to the community.
“We believe being a good neighbour means supporting our local communities and investing in projects that help these communities flourish economically, culturally and environmentally,” said Howard Eng, President and CEO, GTAA. “Gifting public art, funding programs for youth, providing newcomers support to be successful in Canada and operating in an environmentally responsible way are just a few ways we strive to positively impact our neighbours every day.”
Originally commissioned by the GTAA and Hillside Media Communications, Ltd., the intention was always to donate The Book to a worthy organization after its display at Toronto Pearson. The Book was formally gifted to the City of Mississauga’s Public Art Collection in December 2014.
“Public art is instrumental in creating a welcoming space that is both unique and thought provoking,” said Paul Damaso, Director, Culture Division, City of Mississauga. “The City of Mississauga is grateful to the GTAA and Hillside Media Communications for this generous gift that will spark discussion and creativity for many years to come.”
Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA)
The GTAA is the operator of Toronto Pearson International Airport, the largest airport in Canada and one of the largest in North America in terms of passenger and air cargo traffic. In 2015, more than 41 million passengers passed through the airport. By the mid-2030s it is estimated Toronto will serve 65 million per year. As a global hub airport, Toronto Pearson positively contributes to the area’s economy by employing thousands, connecting travellers and goods, and attracting business from around the world.
Contact: GTAA Media Office (416) 776-3709
Twitter: @TorontoPearson