In a vibrant showcase of design, Executive Editor Elizabeth Pagliacolo shares her top five favorites, ranging from parks to innovative lighting. This inaugural Take 5 series reveals the eclectic mix of creativity that inspires her.
Love Park: A Heartfelt Urban Space
Leading off is Love Park, crafted by the design firm CCxA (formerly Claude Cormier et Associés), located near Toronto’s downtown lakeshore. This park embodies a playful spirit, featuring a heart shape that resonates with the community. Claude Cormier, known for his whimsical and inclusive designs, previously created notable works like the 18 Shades of Gay installation in Montreal, which celebrated LGBTQ+ pride through vibrant balloon canopies. Though that installation has been dismantled, its impact remains etched in the memories of those who experienced it.
Jeff Wall’s Retrospective at MOCA
On display until March 22 at Toronto’s MOCA, the Jeff Wall Photographs 1984–2023 retrospective showcases the works of one of Canada’s most esteemed artists. The exhibition features a range of Wall’s iconic light-boxes and large-scale prints that blend documentary and staged photography. His ability to create compelling narratives through meticulously crafted scenes is evident, whether depicting military encounters or serene landscapes.
Nicole Nomsa Moyo’s Cultural Tribute
Another highlight is the work of Nicole Nomsa Moyo, a designer with roots in Zimbabwe and South Africa, now based in Florida. Her recent installation, part of Design Miami 2024, draws inspiration from her heritage, showcasing outdoor furnishings that echo the artistry of the Ndebele people. Moyo’s pieces, including a necklace-shaped bench and tree-suspended “earrings,” reflect her passion for cultural expression and the legacy of women artisans.
Seletti’s Playful BIC Lamp
Bringing a touch of whimsy to everyday objects, Seletti introduces a new lamp designed by Mario Paroli, transforming the classic BIC© Cristal pen into a striking light fixture. This oversized lamp, scaled at 12:1, serves as a playful nod to nostalgia, offering a unique blend of kitsch and sophistication that is signature to Seletti’s design ethos.
Carlo Scarpa’s Architectural Mastery
Lastly, Pagliacolo reflects on her visit to Castelvecchio in Verona, a masterpiece by architect Carlo Scarpa. The museum, which reimagines a medieval fortress, showcases Scarpa’s innovative approach to adaptive reuse. His design integrates historical elements with modern aesthetics, exemplified by the striking placement of the equestrian statue Cangrande I della Scala, suspended above a courtyard on a concrete support.
Elizabeth Pagliacolo, also the Editor of Azure magazine, continues to explore and celebrate design in all its forms, from the intimate to the monumental.
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
