Toronto just got a shiny new addition that’s impossible to miss. Local designer Jyhling Lee has turned her love of origami into a stunning stainless steel sculpture right in the heart of Queen Street West – one of the city’s most famous streets. Introducing Reflector, a five-by-three-meter mirrored masterpiece that’s both a work of art and a playground for selfie lovers.
Inspired by the intricate folding techniques of origami, Lee’s creation is a smooth, angular semicircle that hits the ground at several sharp points, almost as if it were cutting into the sidewalk. But don’t worry, it’s completely safe. The stainless steel surfaces are more there to make a strong statement and catch the light in just the right way. In fact, the reflective surface is specifically designed to draw people in – because let’s be honest, who can resist a shiny object, especially one that reflects your best features?
The choice of materials wasn’t just about aesthetics, though. Lee wanted something “very durable” that could withstand Toronto’s unpredictable weather. Her mirrored steel is corrosion-resistant, easy to clean, and just begs for a little rain to give it that extra shine. Plus, it has built-in lights that turn on at sunset and off at sunrise, making Reflector a glowing beacon all night long.
But this sculpture isn’t just a pretty face – it’s interactive too. Commissioned by the Queen Street West Business Improvement Area (QSWBIA) and the City of Toronto, the piece is designed to reflect the vibrant, bustling energy of Queen Street West. And for Lee, it’s personal – she’s known the area since she was a child, so for her, this is as much about contributing to the community as it is about adding to the city’s artistic landscape.
Whether you live in Toronto or are just passing through, this public artwork is designed to be a “habitable environment,” so don’t be shy—take a photo, walk around the artwork, or just take a moment to admire how Jyhling Lee has transformed something as delicate as origami into a massive, durable, and mesmerizing work of art.
Want to see it for yourself? Head to Queen Street West and experience Reflector in all its reflective glory. It’s a new must-see in Toronto’s vibrant art scene and trust us – you won’t want to miss it.
Photos courtesy of Kurtis Chen
