A magnificent silver maple tree that grew in Toronto’s Leslieville neighbourhood is said to have inspired the song, “The Maple Leaf Forever”, once Canada’s unofficial national anthem. A storm brought the tree down this past July, but it will be getting a second life. Artists and woodworkers will turn its wood into pieces that honor the cultural significance of this historic tree.

As a first step, four Toronto designers have crafted unique pieces from some of the smaller branches and leaves of the tree supplied by the City of Toronto. This exhibit showcases the work of Brothers Dressler, Dystil, The National Design Collective and Paus + Grün, who have transformed the branches of this famous tree into lighting and decorative items. After this exhibit, the items will be sold to raise funds for LEAF’s urban forest programs.