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| - As a child of the suburbs, you grow up thinking graffiti is how hooligans mark their territories. It's no surprise when all of my suburban relatives were surprised such a place existed and asked how I "discovered" it for my engagement photos. When you have a whole block filled with colours and legitimate artists with spray paint bottles, suddenly, vandalism becomes art.
Though there's graffiti all over the city, Graffiti Alley specifically points to Rush Lane that runs from Spadina to Portland. It's made up of a series of back alleys and laneways where you get to admire impressive street art while dodging the occasional car or two. The works really are a sight to behold, if you look past some of random spray painted words that look like they were done by drunk people. You've got professional-looking murals taking up the whole side of a building. Vibrant colours, a ton of creativity, and artwork that is uniquely Toronto.
On weekends, Graffiti Alley becomes Instagram Alley as everyone and their mom brings a camera to the party. I'm almost sure there are tours being led down this place. The walls are a living canvas. People paint on top of things all the time, making way for new backdrops. I won't lie though, Graffiti Alley looks much better through a camera lens than with the naked eye. With a camera, you can point it upwards and avoid all the garbage and crap at your feet.
Now that summer's here, I can imagine it only getting busier with social media influencers and tourists. Don't let that stop you though. Grab your best camera (phone), don't be afraid to get dirty, and get your 2 minute photo shoot with the famously brilliant Aquarium wall. Your followers will appreciate it.
(27/100) - 2018
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