The Writing on the Wall is a projection installation displayed on the exterior of Toronto heritage building The Mackenzie house for Nuit Blanche 2022. The Mackenzie house is last home of Toronto’s first mayor, William Lyon Mackenzie. The project features the words and performances of five award winning spoken word artists, Lishai Peel, Britta B, Komi Olaf, Jennifer Alicia Murrin and Ian Keteku. During Nuit Blanche, words inspired by the life and legacy of Mackenzie will be displayed in animated typography along the Mackenzie House exterior. A large format projection shows each poet reciting poems inspired by the life and works of William Lyon Mackenzie. The life of Mackenzie serves as a testament to the power of words. As a journalist, a politician, and leader, he focused on making things better for the community around him. He stood up to the government of the time spoke out against and certain injustices. Spoken word poets use their voice to speak the truth, to uplift their communities and build connection between listeners. We are at a pivotal moment in human history, the world is fractured and the space between us seems as large as ever. Spoken word poetry is at the forefront of creating awareness and offering a platform to
marginalized and underrepresented voices. Through this installation, the poets speak to the need and value of raising one’s own voice. Until will open the channels of communication between various demographics, systems of governance and the people they serve, the space between us remains vast. The poems encourage patrons to look at their own lives and relationships and become inspired to close the gaps between each other.
