Things are getting celestial on Grand Boulevard this summer!
“Stars of the Neighbourhood”, a community-created art project led by NVRC artists Elvira & Dolores, will be on display in the trees and along the path between 11th and 13th Streets in Grand Boulevard Park throughout summer and fall. Look up into the trees and down at their bases when you’re walking through the park and enjoy a glimpse of these special artworks.
This hyper-local project is made up of willow stars woven by community members at a series of NVRC workshops earlier this year—with willow branches harvested in the same block of the park where the stars are now displayed! Together, the constellation of stars form an outdoor art gallery that will add some sparkle to the neighbourhood all season long.
The stars are fragile—so please enjoy them with your eyes only. Do not touch and kindly encourage others to do the same. Each star will be returned to its creator for their own enjoyment in the fall, once the community display is over.
This isn’t Elvira and Dolores’ first foray into willow sculpture, nor is it their first project on Grand Boulevard. If you frequent the area, you might remember the beloved Hemispheria sculptures of a moth, flying insect, spider and caterpillar they created during their NVRC Artist Residency in 2023.
What participants are saying
- "Thank you so much. I found my star this week as I frequently walk in the park. So grateful to be part of this exhibition!"
- “I was so excited to see my star hanging gracefully from a tree at the park. Wonderful community project!”
About the artists
Dolores Altin and Elvira Monteforte are multi-media artists who have been collaborating since 2019 to create public art using natural and recycled materials, textiles, and paint. Their work is grounded in the concept of placemaking—a creative approach that transforms public spaces into meaningful places that foster stronger community connections.
Together, they design fun, accessible art projects that invite participation from people of all ages, encouraging a shared sense of creativity and belonging.
“We are inspired by the enthusiasm of people to make art and by the enjoyment they experience when they connect to others in the community who share that same passion.” – Dolores
“Making art allows people to release their ‘inner child’, to ‘play’ and enjoy the process, free of judgement.” – Elvira
To learn more about Dolores, Elvira and their vibrant community art projects, visit loandbeholdart.com