Pickering's Esplanade Park now home to new Reflections Garden and Public art piece, "Reflections" created by Studio F Minus

The Reflections garden is intended to reflect the impact of COVID-19 on our community and our resilience, providing a public space for reflection, wellness and gathering.

In 2018, the City of Pickering received provincial support to complete Phase 1 enhancements to Esplanade Park through the Main Street Fund. Phase 1 included the installation of several pieces of permanent public art including four sculptures by artists Geordie Lishman, ‘Spirit of Pickering’, and two sculptures by artist Ron Baird, ‘Pollinators’. Phase 1 upgrades were installed in 2020, and included upgraded landscaping and seating in Esplanade Park. With the funding support of $255,375 from the Government of Canada, Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FEDASO), Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF), the City of Pickering was able to initiate Phase 2 of this project in 2023.

In response to the pandemic, Phase 2 of the Esplanade Park project includes a Reflections Garden that provides a public space for people to practice self-care and reflection. This section of Esplanade Park includes sensory plantings, accessible seating, a shade structure and playable music instruments. The new permanent public art, ‘Reflections’ by Studio F Minus serves as the focal point for this space.

In their proposal Studio F Minus made the following statement: “Reflections is a highly engaging yet intimate work of public art that feels incomplete. Among an intriguing array of mirrored panels that force you to take a look at yourself from different perspectives, sits a solitary void to the open sky. The sculpture marks the lives of those we lost to Covid-19 and examines themes of loss, grief, self-reflection, and how they each require time”.

“Esplanade Park is in the heart of Pickering’s City Centre and is animated for City events and commemorations, and used daily by residents as a place to gather, unwind, and recreate,” said Mayor Kevin Ashe.  “Vibrant, sustainable, and accessible public spaces are critical towards building a strong and connected community. The innovative, and tranquil addition of the Reflections Garden to Esplanade Park will become a preferred destination for our residents and visitors seeking reflection, inspiration, and serenity.”    

This landmark project, located at the north east corner of Esplanade Park, will provide space for residents and visitors to relax, reflect and immerse themselves into tranquil musical tunes.

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As the gateway to the east GTA, Pickering (population 94,000) is strategically located where Toronto, York and Durham Regions meet. An award-winning municipality, Pickering is slated for significant economic and residential growth; offering an unparalleled quality of life for those who live, work, and play here. Its dynamic City Centre has been designated by the Province of Ontario as both an Urban Growth Centre and Mobility Hub, and continues to evolve as a preferred destination for creative learning, memorable events, and unique experiences at the heart of a vibrant, connected, and engaged community.

Media Contact:

Laura Gibbs
Division Head, Culture & Community Programming
905.420.4660 ext. 3709
1.866.683.2760
lgibbs@pickering.ca