“A Transit Through Time” features a six-artist group exhibition co-curated by Union and MakeRoom Inc. as well as a special featured project by renowned artist Jordan Sook, “Nothing More Nothing Less”. The entire exhibition reminds viewers that everyone is part of the past, and we are responsible for shaping the future.
Toronto Union is kicking off its 2025 cultural season with two exciting public art exhibitions celebrating seven Black artists. Toronto Union has a rich history of supporting artists and providing platforms for them to share their stories through art. The Union programming team selects, curates, and hosts free public art exhibitions year-round. This exhibition launches on February 12, featuring “Nothing More Nothing Less” by artist Jordan Sook and “A Transit Through Time,” a group exhibition showcasing six artists, co-curated with MakeRoom Inc. and sponsored by TD Bank Group (TD).
“At Union, our mission is to celebrate the vibrant diversity of Canada through arts and cultural programming that uplifts and connects our communities,” says Syma Shah, Executive Director of Programming. “A Transit Through Time and Nothing More Nothing Less both embody this vision by spotlighting the creativity and ingenuity of Black artists. These exhibitions invite visitors to reflect on the legacies that shape our present and future, fostering dialogue and connection in the heart of the city. We’re proud to highlight the creative visions of Jordan Sook and MakeRoom Inc., and bring this experience to life.”
More than a space that Canadians transit through, Union station is also a space-maker for culture and art, and a role model in community investment for accessible public art.
As the premier sponsor of Union Station, TD is the proud sponsor of this exhibition. "TD is proud to support spaces that elevate black voices and celebrate their experiences and achievements in such a meaningful way,” says Michael Armstrong, Vice President, North American Brand and Sponsorship. “This exhibit is meant to encourage reflection, understanding and conversations, empowering all commuters and visitors to see, feel and appreciate the many contributions of black artists."
Championing Black Artists with “A Transit Through Time”
The exhibition located in the West Wing is a co-curatorial project in collaboration with MakeRoom Inc. Union’s relationship with MakeRoom Inc was born out of a shared mission to create spaces for local artists that are inclusive, diverse and equitable. This year the call asked artists to respond to the following questions: What does culture mean to you? How do you honour the past?
The featured works of artists Destinie Adélakun, Pixel Heller, Segun Caezar, Heritier Bilaka, Rico Poku and Camille Kiffin encourage exploration of the connections between the past and present, and the traditions that have shaped culture through time. They offer a glimpse into the enduring legacy and boundless creativity of Black communities.
“We are rooted in the legacies of those who came before us. Black creativity and traditions have had a transformational impact on cultures all around the world,” says Trevor Twells, founder of MakeRoom Inc. “A Transit Through Time is an anthology exploring the relationship between past and present in African and Afro-Diasporic cultures. We hope visitors will leave inspired by the artist’s stories and the diversity of Black culture, the ways it evolves, and how it connects us with the generations that came before us.”
Transformative Beauty with “Nothing More Nothing Less”
In addition to the group exhibition, Union has selected special guest artist Jordan Sook to present the solo exhibition, Nothing More Nothing Less, a collection of images of butterflies showcased in various mediums throughout Union for people to discover. The butterflies, containing the artist's signature hand painted spots, represent self-expression and the joyfulness of the human spirit. Each piece merges entomology with curiosity, exploring themes of metamorphosis, transformation and evolution.
Through this work, the artist seeks to present a fresh perspective on celebrating Black history. Sook aims to emphasize the significance of creating without limitations, encouraging both artists and community members to think without boundaries.
Exhibition Information
Opening to the public on Wednesday, February 12, at 6:00 pm with an artist panel and musical celebration. The exhibitions are open daily during station operating hours and are located on the ground level in the West Wing and Oak Room. Additionally, Jordan Sook’s works extend to the station’s exterior banners along Front Street, as well as digital screens and a hoarding wall in the new lower area of the station.
Admission is free, and the exhibition runs until August 2025.
