Future unclear for Toronto landmark destroyed by arson

It's been a little over two months since a fire consumed one of downtown Toronto's most recognizable public art pieces, and despite lots of community concern and a clear desire for its return, the future of the destroyed landmark remains uncertain. 

On April 2, fire crews were called to Canoe Landing Park, located at 95 Fort York Blvd., at approximately 2:40 a.m. in response to reports that the park's iconic red canoe structure was on fire. 

Toronto Fire Services quickly extinguished the blaze, and thankfully, no injuries were reported. Toronto police later confirmed that they believe the fire was an act of arson, and the Ontario Fire Marshal indicated that the incident will not be investigated any further. 

All that remains of the once red canoe is its frame. Photo: Fareen Karim.

Created by Canadian artist Douglas Coupland in 2008 and installed in 2009, the canoe has been a fixture of the park ever since, and could be seen clearly by commuters along the Gardiner Expressway. For many, the red sculpture served as a symbolic gateway into Toronto's downtown core. 

The canoe was designed in homage to Tom Thomson, a legendary Canadian painter who vanished during a canoe trip in Algonquin Park in 1917. 

In the aftermath of the fire, Coupland responded to the incident via Instagram, writing, "Still waiting for the results of the police report. It’s definitely arson. It’s just so strange." 

Coun. Ausma Malik, who represents Spadina–Fort York, expressed her sorrow for the loss of the landmark on her website. 

"I'm deeply disheartened and upset by this news. A legacy artwork that stands atop one of my favourite parks in the city, the canoe has been an iconic landmark that is beloved by residents and visitors alike. It is a play area for kids, a welcome into our downtown, and a source of pride for our City Place community — the emotional impact this incident has on those who cherish this public artwork cannot be ignored." 

In response, Malik introduced a motion at the Toronto and East York Community Council to explore options for restoring the sculpture. The motion was adopted without amendment the day after the fire. 

As part of the process, a Google form has been posted to Malik's website since shortly after the blaze, inviting public feedback on how the artwork should be restored or reimagined. 

While there is a clear will to see the red canoe return to the park in some form, no concrete plans or timelines have been announced.