G-Uknit: Event Decor & Storefronts

"If there were window display awards, one would surely go to Type Books on Queen St. West, where window creations are marvelous little temples that honour the book on display."- Shawn Micallef (The Toronto Star, June 2012)

Since 2010 I've had the privilege of occasionally decorating the storefront window of TYPE Books, an independent and beautifully curated bookstore in the city's west end. Behind the glass - if you can get past the reflection of Trinity-Bellwoods Park - lies an elaborate and entirely handmade world designed to lure you inside, tempting you with a glimpse of the printed and bound beauties awaiting you on the shelves. With a miniscule budget and a wealth of creativity, simple materials transform this shop's storefront every month. Each sculptural display - made from cardboard boxes, crudely sewn-together scraps of fabric, discarded bubble wrap or the crinkled, newsprint packing paper that protects each shipment of books - is an expression of the relentless and resourceful spirit of the very community the bookstore serves - individuals who can inspire and be inspired by words on paper.

This focus on simple, recycled materials is also central to the various event decor and set design projects I've had the honour of creating and installing over the past few years. Being involved with events like the Junction Flea and City of Craft means spending a lot of time in dark buildings hanging up decorations. The challenge of transforming a space for a few days, or even a few hours, with limited time and supplies is exhilarating. Creating a new little world and then tearing it all down after the show as if it never happened is my way of providing a unique and magical experience for everyone present.