Gal-lery I

On By ResaIn Faces, Street Art

Thank you Lauren for thinking of me and taking these fab shots of beauty for me!

It’s a wonderful feeling to be thought of!

This gorgeous wall painting was taken by Lauren at Baydreamer Writes in late October, when out at a Mexican restaurant. I love it!

I also love Cora’s Quest (her first children’s book) and King Copper, Ever So Gently and More Than Coffee (fine poetry collections). Head to her site for the links to grab one of these gift-able books!

I’ve done reviews of all of her books. Just put the title into the “Search” engine not too far down the sidebar, and go to it.

MONA OF KENSINGTON

“This iconic Kensington Market mural is finally complete — 43 years after it was painted on a dare.”

She’s miserably hard to shoot up high and through wires, but she’s always been there. With her wonky eyes, she was there on my first shopping trip to Kensington.

When I started collecting street art, I did take pics of her. However, she was crumbling & in b&w. This summer the original artist returned and finished her. Here’s an article about it!

Faces in Waiting

The first stunning multi-colour face was on a Magic Mushrooms shop.

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This second face is on a shipping container used as a shop. A row of these container businesses line the Dundas West Skateboard Park “DUNBAT”

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The third face was on a restaurant in Yorkville in 2020. It’s gone now.

THE VIOLINIST

I’d love to learn to paint white on black!

WOW! Watch Lindsey dress during the performance. Stunning!

Pics take by Resa 2020-2025

Toronto, Canada

The artists: in order of appearance

Machy Art

Unknown -on a Magic Mushrooms shop

Mathieu Bories

204 thoughts on “Gal-lery I”

    1. Hello Violet!

      I was on a streetcar and had just finished paying, when I saw the Violinist. So, I got off to take the pics. It was worth the $3.00!

      One piece of art can make my day.

      Reply

    1. Thanks Dave! The photo files are filled with one offs that don’t make a post each on their own.
      This is a perfect way to showcase them!
      I was thrilled when Lauren sent me pics of that beautiful art!

      Reply

    1. Thanks Robbie!
      I have so many pieces in my photo files, that this was a way to get more than 1 out there.
      I’m excited about the pics I’ll be sending for your article. They will all be ones I hadn’t posted before!

      Reply

    1. I love the Violinist. I got off a street car just after I paid. I saw this going by, and thought no way! It was so worth the extra fare.

      Thank you for checking this out, Michael!

      Reply

  9. This is beautiful! I love the art , it’s awesome that the artist came back to finish his work , that’s dedication! Lauren sent some beautiful art to you. Thank you both for sharing this delight. Lindsey Stirling is captivating as well.
    xoxoxoxoxo

    Reply

    1. Agree about the dedication!
      Art drives me into a whirl of joy. Have you been to “Wynwood Walls” recently? It must be wonderful to live in that area.

      That Lindsey video makes me feel like running outside and throwing paint into the world.

      Painted Meece!
      xo🧡💙🐭🎨🐭❤️💜xo

      Reply

      1. I felt the same. Like Dancing in my too tight leotards right through the streets. 😊I’ve been so busy lately ( with issuesI haven’t been to go the art district in a long time , sorry to say. Butwill make a point of getting there, sending you some pics. also to Art Basel Miami 2025 at the Miami Beach Convention Center from December 5–7, 2025. So , it will be a big deal and I hope to get myself there.

        More painted Meece

        xo🧡💙🐭🎨🐭❤️💜xo🐭🎨🧑‍🎨🫟🐭🫶🐭🎨xo
        Adore you Meece.

        Reply

        1. Go see the art! It’s such a great distraction from all the non-art going on right now.

          I’ll take whatever pics you can get!

          Painted Meece #2 🧡💙🐭🎨 to Painted Meece #1 ❤️💜🐭🎨 Over and Out!

          xoxoxoxoxoxo

          Reply

  10. I’m glad you loved the painting I sent you, Resa, and I think of you every time I see a mural! I thought she was lovely, so thanks for incorporating her into this gorgeous presentation of faces. They’re all incredible! And thanks for pitching my books too – so kind of you. Sending hugs and lots of love. 🩷💙💜❤️ xoxo

    Reply

    1. Aww, thank you Lauren!
      I know you have family with you right now, so it is extra special that you popped by.
      Again, thank you!!!!
      Sending lots of love and hugs back!
      xoxo 💙💜❤️ xoxo

      Reply

  11. ⬻𓂀☆♡ ‌ ‌ 🎀 ‌ 𝐺𝑟𝑜𝑜𝑣𝑦 ‌ 🎀 ‌ ‌ ♡☆𓂀⤖

    especially loving the multicolour face 🌈🍄 and the violinist 🎻

    nice one 💫✨ʁɞşα✨💫

    ɢ

    ⬻𓂀✧ ‌🔺 ✬ღ☆ ‌🔺 ‌∞ ♡ ∞ ‌🔺 ‌☆ღ✬ ‌🔺 ‌✧𓂀⤖

    Reply

    1. ⬻𓂀☆♡ ‌ ‌ 🎀 ‌ 𝐺𝑟𝑜𝑜𝑣𝑦 ‌ 🎀 ‌ ‌ ♡☆𓂀⤖

      Can’t improve on a good groovy!

      Yes, both are wonderful pieces!

      I found another mandala(ish)!! One more to go, and I’ll have a post, for 𝒢ℜ𝕒Ⱶɐɯ!

      Reply

  12. This is a captivating piece that seamlessly blends provocative femininity with warrior strength. Ultimately, it’s a stunning painting—white on black! Absolutely fascinating!

    👏💖🥰

    Reply

    1. I agree, Aladin!

      Street art is the most fun I have in many ways. I love the hunt.

      I’m all inspired to try white on black art, again. So, I will!

      xox🌟❦❦❦🤗

      Reply

    1. I’d settle just to be able to sing 1 song w/o going off key.
      I did the next best thing. I married a musician. Okay.. a guitar player, but he plays many instruments now.
      Just not the violin.
      xxx

      Reply

    1. Thanks Brad!
      All this art makes me giddy. And, I’m going to the Art Gallery next week, because it’s so cold out now.

      Lauren rocks, and yes, the Co-op mural story is terrific.
      Yahoo!

      Reply

            1. Hahaha! I would love that!
              Although, I think the dance with Misha would be me doing the jumping, rolling and crawling while she did licking, rolling and meowing.
              She does a mean flip flopping kinda roll! xxx

              Reply

        1. Still, you have some mural art.
          I know the tags are dumb.

          Here, If it’s not a stoopid gang thing, it’s high school kids writing a word, usually their name- over and over and over!

          Reply

    1. The Violinist is super. I’ve tried to do white on black. I really need some tips… and I’m not sure I have the right paints, although I bought what was suggested.

      Thanks Marian!

      Reply

    1. Thanks Dan!

      Kensington is a fab place, sort of caught between old fashion European Markets, the 1970’s and the artists’ quarters. Bohemian and ethnic it doesn’t fit into modern day shopping, or anything urban today.

      Yes, The Violinist is stunning. I need to try my hand at white on black paper again.

      It’s difficult.

      Reply

    1. Ah, the Mission district. I’ve heard of its murals. I’d love to go see them.

      Thanks Jan! Im obsessed about collecting this street art.
      Not sure for what, but I hope to archive the blog one day.

      Reply

  27. OMG. How do you–just as I think best post ever– do another post that leaves my jaw on the deck????? This is so epic, I have now looked at it, 5 times. And I will be back to look at it another 5 tomorrow. The ‘history’ the art is beyond belief . xxxxxxxxxxxxx

    Reply

    1. Thank you dear Shey!
      I’m so fortunate to live in a city of artists.
      Even as Toronto embraces art, the art world remains difficult for artists to penetrate.

      So, they paint the walls! YAY!!!
      xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

      Reply

  28. I have to say the Violinist portrait is my favourite – it takes a great deal of skill to create images in monochrome. It also reminds me of my musical career years ago when I played (basic) violin for a while. I was performing at a gig with it when this guy approached me and asked “Why’re you playin’ that old thing?” to which I replied, “Because lent Yehudi my new ‘un!”
    I’m not sure the guy got the joke! Thanks as always for sharing.

    Reply

  29. Oh how lovely that Lauren took some murals for you, Resa! I love the Mexican lady!

    Y’know, since I subscribed to your blog, whenever I see a beautiful mural I thought of you, but I’m usually driving so it’s not always easy to take pics of them.

    Love all of these murals, but the Violinist took my breath away!! There is something so dramatic about black/white art, that one will stop me in my tracks if I were walking by. The use of shadows, her expression… wow… absolute perfection!!

    Thanks for this, Resa… as it’s Thanksgiving weekend in the US, I want to say I’m really grateful for you!! ❤ ❦ ♡ ♥

    Reply

    1. Dear Ruth,
      Thank you!
      I am grateful for you, too!
      Lauren was a doll to send these pics. If you ever get a chance, I’ll take what you send.
      Isn’t there a Dylan mural in your city?

      The Violinist has me fired up to do a white on black painting! Soon….
      🌹❦❦❦🌹❦❦❦🌹❦❦❦

      Reply

      1. Yeah, I mentioned the Dylan mural to you a while back. Unfortunately I don’t go to downtown Minneapolis often and if I passed by it I’m usually in the car. But hey, perhaps in the Summer time I might make a trek there and snap it for you!

        I look forward to seeing your b/w painting!!
        XOXOXOXO

        Reply

        1. Okay… Lol.. re; Dylan – can’t blame a street art fanatic for trying!

          I’m building up to the B&W!
          Just started a portrait… all so exciting!
          XOXOXOXO

          Reply

    2. Thanks, Ruth, and I just commented to Suzette that many times when I see a mural, I’m in the car too and not able to take a photo. But I discreetly clicked away for this beauty while enjoying lunch. I love the Violinist too, but they’re all amazing. 💞

      Reply

      1. Lauren,
        If you ever need to know about a film, check out Ruth’s blog!
        She does the best reviews. Just put the name of the film in the “Search” and see if it’s there!
        xxxx

        Reply

  30. Oh, wow, Resa! Such amazing murals and art! The Kensington Market mural is stunning and looks tricky to accomplish, especially with half it changing to bricks rather than stone. I love the faces collection of images as well; the artists really seem to capture something in the expressions that is so profound and unapologetically real! You’ve inspired me to go in search of some murals in the city! 💙🎨❄️

    Reply

    1. Ada!
      I was wondering if anyone would notice the change in the brickwork. That makes painting it – trickwork.

      Yes… search for street art! The bonus is all the walking is healthy.

      Have a great week ahead dear Ada!
      ✨🌟❦❦

      Reply

    1. Yes, the Violinist is fabulous. I’ve got black art paper… but it’s not that easy. I need to find the right medium. I’ll try white acrylic next. I have some left.

      We lived across the road from Kensington for many years. Norm had a band and no $$. I was trying to be a designer. I loved the bohemian lifestyle.
      Ha! I think I brought it with me when we bought our home.

      Reply

  32. Wow, Sorceress! This is an all around fantabulous post!

    Love the wonky eyes on the Mona of Kensington Market. How fabulous that they got the original artist to revamp her!

    All the pretty faces but I have to admit, that violinist is gorgeous.

    I love Lindsey Stirling and this video is as stunning as all the ladies you have shared. Perfect combo!

    xoxoxoxoxoxo

    Reply

    1. Thunder!

      Thank you! I finally figured a way to post one offs, the Theme Presentation!

      Funny, this comment is not in my notifications queue. I just saw another from Dan. Oh well, that’s why I scroll down all comments.

      Yes, that Mona’s original artist came back is vey cool. Finally, someone older than me out in the street art streets.

      The Violinist is inspiring me to try white on black art….. again!

      Meantime, I’m trying to draw an old Keith Richards. Cripes…what a face. Maybe a car ran over it?

      Love that video, but it’s more the painted dress than the music.

      LOVE you!

      xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

      Reply

      1. Sorceress!

        What up WP! I usually go down mine, too because there are those that we might have seen in the notifications but didn’t respond right away and then it gets lost…

        Very cool!

        Oooh… Looking forward to whatever you create.

        Lordy… That face has a LOT of crags, doesn’t it?

        Yes, I love pretty much anything Lindsey Stirling does but this dress was way cool.

        LOVE YOU BACK!

        xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

        Reply

  33. Wonderful faces and colors Resa! I am always fascinated by these artists changing the streets of our cities by their imagination and talent!

    How nice of Lauren to send you this picture!

    Have a great week 🩷

    Reply

    1. Thank you Debby!

      Yes, the Violinist is wonderful. I’m trying my hand at white on black. It is Not easy!

      I see your book made the top review on Diana’s blog.

      Congratulations. I look forward to reviewing it in January!

      Sending Love! xoxoxoxo

      Reply

    1. Holding, with a tad more energy. No test has shown anything, yet. So, it’s not something typical or they’ve made a mistake.
      He’s waiting to find out if he gets more tests.
      Thank you for asking, Brian!

      Reply

      1. Winter can push you down a bit. The good thing is that the standard tests haven’t shown anything… They might have made a mistake, but, it’s all mostly automated now… What does the Doc say?

        Reply

        1. The Doc is miffed, and “they” are not sure what to do next.
          I’m keeping an eye over here. He seems to have slipped backwards today.

          Frustrating!

          Reply

  41. Such a beautiful post, Resa: the face sent by Lauren, and all the other faces you’ve collected. Such beauty, talent, variety, creativity. It’s delightful to stop by and get an eyeful of art. And the music video was stunning too. I can see why you gave it a “wow.” Fabulous post, my friend. ❤

    Reply

    1. Thank you, Diana!
      The more AI art takes over, the more I love street art, a last bastion which is also in jeopardy.

      I stood in below freezing temps and snow yesterday, to watch an artist paint art on a wall. We had a lovely chat, and he laughed when I puffy coats hugged him upon leaving.

      I have finished reading “The Rose Shield” series!
      Amazing, Diana. You are an inspired writer. I’ll be getting back to you next year, when I will do some drawings for a review!
      xo

      Reply

      1. “Puffy coats hug” Lol.
        And thank you for the lovely comment about the Rose Shield. I’m flattered, happy, grateful to the point of my eyes welling up! lol. Best present ever! Hugs.

        Oh, and sorry for acknowledging your comment so late. It’s that crazy time of year. 🎅🏼🎄🎁🙃

        Reply

        1. No worries about late! Nothing to worry about in blogland comments.

          AND… between the holidays and Norm being so sick for 3 months now, I’m at a crawl, myself.

          I have so much wonderful art U want to share, that at this rate of blogging, I’ll need to live to 100!
          ❦🕊✨🎄🌹

          Reply

    1. Thank you, Luisa!
      I was thrilled when I learned that Mona had been restored. I’d been watching it crumble away for years. I became determined to photo graph it as soon as possible.

      LOL, I literally went the next day.
      I’m so happy you got to see her.

      ♥️💕♥️

      Reply

  43. while I’m late to the party, I’m here to let you know, I loved the heartwarming gesture and share of Lauren sending love your way! Mona Lisa looks to be in her glory with your glowing shots perfectly taken! Such a gift you have to capture these amazing murals and bring them to life for us to admire and appreciate. Sending love as I’m getting

    y oars back in the water…kind of… ( I’ve bee underwater with fam) but finding my rudder.
    hope you are doing well!!! Been thinking of you! Hugs to you and yours hubs. 🩷🩷🩷

    Reply

    1. Lauren is wonderful. I was so happy. to get the pics, to know she had thought of me.

      I’m usually the last one to get to a party. No worries. Like I always say, I know where you are, and you know where I am.

      Family comes first. Blogging is later down the line. I’ve been distracted by family health issues, so I get it!

      Much love to you & yours Cindy!
      xoxoxoxo

      Reply

      1. Indeed she is as are you! It’s always lovely to be thought about! Yes, you know where I am add I you. Hoping things are improving and you’re so right we can only be in one place at one time and have to make certain that we put our energy where we’re needed most.. It’s always a push pool for me since I like to be everywhere lol!

        Sending lots of love!
        ❤️

        Reply

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