Written by Sanjeev Wignarajah & danielle goldfinger
The Ossington Laneway, nestled between a wine shop and a neighbouring storefront, stretches from Queen Street to Humbert Street and was transformed in 2018 into a vibrant corridor of public art. Featuring work by artists like Peru, Lovebot, Spud, and many others, the laneway has become a hidden gem—like a west-end cousin to Graffiti Alley or Underpass Park 2.0.
What makes this laneway truly special is both its resilience and the deep respect it holds within the community. A year after its creation, much of the original artwork was vandalized—but instead of disappearing, the artists returned, repainting and reinvigorating the space. At the same time, some murals have remained completely untouched, standing for years without a single tag or mark. That kind of longevity is rare—and speaks volumes about the respect these artists command and the sense of ownership local residents feel for the laneway.
This is the power of mural art and graffiti: beyond aesthetics, they’re tools for transforming overlooked spaces into dynamic, healthy public places. Art signals that a space matters—that it’s watched, loved, and alive. It invites people to stop, engage, and connect with their environment and each other.
Today, Ossington Laneway bursts with bold colour and intricate detail. It’s a striking backdrop for photos, music videos, or a quiet moment of appreciation. And just like the Ossington strip itself—lined with independent cafés, boutiques, restaurants, and bars—the laneway reflects a neighbourhood that’s creative, eclectic, and proud of its local culture.
