Mr. Dressup’s Magic

Introduction

Mr. Dressup’s Magic is a permanent public art tribute to one of Canada’s most beloved cultural figures, Mr. Dressup, starring the incomparable Ernie Coombs.

About the Artwork

This sculpture is a tribute to one of Canada’s most beloved cultural figures, Mr. Dressup, starring the incomparable Ernie Coombs. Mr. Dressup, a children’s television show, debuted in 1967 and remained on air until 1996 engaging generations of Canadians. The show celebrated Mr. Dressup’s passionate dedication to kindness and the power of creativity and imagination. Mr. Dressup’s Magic presents Mr. Dressup in his six-armed tuxedo, known to be one of his most favourite costumes. In his hands, he holds a paintbrush and palette, pencil, scissors, tambourine, and book. Beside him, his iconic Tickle Trunk overflows with a cheerful horse mask, a costume, a colourful xylophone, musical notes, and sparkling magical shapes. Together, these objects symbolize the various avenues of creative self-expression, storytelling, magic and wonder he shared with his audience. A luminous rainbow speaks to inclusivity and boundless imagination. The work’s visual language draws on the simplicity of cut-paper craft, evoking the accessible materials and child-like wonder that defined the show. Its placement between the library and playground positions Mr. Dressup as a welcoming figure, extending his arms in an embrace of joyful openness to all who enter the park. More than a commemorative monument, Mr. Dressup’s Magic invites participation and creates a space where memory, creativity, play, and community merge.

About the Artist

Kseniya Tsoy is a cultural producer and community-engaged artist whose practice explores the intersection of creativity, social innovation, and play envisioning arts and culture as dynamic vehicles for positive societal change. She develops participatory projects that foster inclusivity, intercultural dialogue, and meaningful connection, positioning the arts as a vital force for social transformation. With a commitment to cultivating shared experiences that strengthen communities, Tsoy reimagines the ways we connect with each other and the spaces we inhabit. For nearly a decade, she collaborated internationally with World Culture Open on cross-cultural initiatives that brought together diverse voices and generations. Since relocating to Toronto in 2018, Tsoy has continued her community engagement work through collaborative murals, workshops, and creative project management.