Oct 21, 2024

Mural series showcases Canadian creative talent, inspiring communities across the country

Toronto, ON (October 21, 2024) – In a tribute to Canadian excellence, three striking portrait-style murals will celebrate drag superstar Priyanka, award-winning Canadian actor Paul Sun Hyung-Lee, and one of Canada’s most celebrated filmmakers, the late Jean-Marc Vallée, whose visionary work left an indelible mark on cinema.

Starting today, the murals will appear in each of these culture figures' hometowns: Priyanka’s vibrant tribute now brightens the heart of Toronto’s Gay Village at the corner of Church and Wellesley, and Paul Sun-Hyung Lee’s mural brings fresh energy to Calgary’s Inglewood neighborhood at The Blue Store (1344 9 Ave SE). To be unveiled later this week, Jean-Marc Vallée is immortalized with a stunning tribute on the Real by Fake building (1455 Rue Saint-Timothée) in Montreal, home to the special effects company that worked on many of his projects.

The mural series, part of the MADE | NOUS Hometown Hero campaign, celebrates the profound influence and achievements of these individuals who have shaped Canadian culture and inspire future generations of creative talent. Through their artistic contributions, Priyanka, Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, and Jean-Marc Vallée have left their distinct mark on their hometown cities while making a lasting impact on the national and international stage. The presence of the murals aims to uplift the communities they have touched, fostering creativity and inspiration across the country.

“I remember thinking as a kid, I cannot WAIT to move to Toronto to be a big star! My life changed when I moved to the Gay Village,” said Priyanka. “As someone who found their voice and passion in the heart of Toronto, seeing myself on a mural in the Gay Village feels surreal! It’s a celebration of not just my journey, but of the entire LGBTQ+ community that has supported me every step of the way. I hope this mural inspires others to embrace their uniqueness, live their passion, and remember that anything is possible when you are your true self.”

“Growing up in Calgary, I never imagined I’d be part of something like this,” said Paul Sun Hyung-Lee. “It’s incredibly humbling to see my story reflected in the streets of my hometown. I hope this mural serves as a reminder to everyone that no goal is too big, and no journey is too small to make a lasting impact. Canada’s strength is in our diversity and our stories, and I’m proud to be part of that narrative.”

A statement from Alex & Émile Vallée, the sons of Jean-Marc Vallée: “Our father always believed that storytelling had the power to transcend boundaries and connect people on a deeply emotional level. This mural honors his spirit and his unwavering commitment to his craft. It’s a beautiful tribute to his roots here in Montreal, a city that shaped his vision and where his journey as a filmmaker began. We know he would be deeply moved by this gesture, and we hope it inspires future generations of artists to follow their passion.”

“As Canadians, we’re united by a shared pride of where we come from and the stories only we can tell. By recognizing these hometown heroes in the cities where their journeys began, we can inspire others to pursue their dreams and tell their stories, no matter where they start or where they land,” said Mathieu Chantelois, Executive Vice President, Marketing & Public Affairs, Canada Media Fund. “These murals stand as powerful reminders that greatness can come from anywhere, and that the next wave of Canadian talent is already rising in communities across our country.”

In addition to the murals, MADE | NOUS will donate $5,000 to local charities chosen by each Hometown Hero. Priyanka has selected ASAAP (Alliance for South Asian AIDS Prevention) and 2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations, with the donation being split between the two organizations. Paul Sun-Hyung Lee has chosen the Brain Tumor Foundation of Canada, and a donation in Jean-Marc Vallées honour will be made to the Jean-Marc Vallée Memorial Fund.

The murals were designed by Étienne Dicaire (Priyanka), Charmaine Wong (Paul Sun Hyung-Lee) and Zek (Jean-Marc Vallée).