For more than seven years, the Eternal Flame of Hope has burned brightly at Metro Hall in downtown Toronto. Its inscription says it all: “Symbolic of the hopes, aspirations and triumphal achievements burning within the human spirit. May courage never be extinguished, or light diminished nor spirits bound in pursuit of personal excellence”. Inspired by the perseverance of disabled Canadians everywhere, it serves as a reminder that, as a society, we must be all-inclusive.
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The Eternal Flame of Hope
The Canadian Foundation for Physically Disabled Persons
- Mixed Media
- 1996
- 4.6 m x 4.6 m
- 55 John Street, Metro Hall, Toronto
About the artwork
About the artist
Though the artist for The Eternal Flame is unclear, this work is one of many eternal flames that burns bright across the world. Most prominently seen in the Olympic opening ceremonies, these flames frequently symbolize equality in the pursuit of human achievement. This Flame was commissioned in 1996 for the Why Not Marathon by The Canadian Foundation for Physically Disabled Persons. This event was dedicated to inclusivity for the differently-abled.
Fun facts
- The Canadian Foundation for Physically Disabled Persons hosts an annual Gala for the proliferation of awareness and support for the disabled community. It is called The Great Valentines Gala. It has been held every year in February for the past 37 years.
Engagement questions
- How can art help celebrate diversity & inclusion?
