Just a quick update to let people know I'll be contributing to an upcoming panel discussion called "Representing Toronto: Mapping the Role of the Artist in the City" at the Koffler Gallery Off-site (80 Spadina Avenue, Suite 503) on this coming Monday 2 April 2012.

The discussion, whose participants will include literary me, theatre director Jacob Zimmer, architect-turned-artist Flavio Trevisan and urbanist John Lorinc, is motivated by Trevisan's remarkable Museum of the Represented City, a "museum of the present" that uses maps and other urban artifacts to suggest alternate ways of navigating the city's cultural and cartographic history.

Here's the official event description:

How does a city form its character and unique personality? To become a livable reality, a city needs to be imagined and grow as a representation in the minds of its inhabitants. Beyond the buildings, the roads, and the landmarks, artists have a critical role in shaping the idea and identity of the city. Through their artistic practice they indirectly give form to the real physical and cultural landscape.

This panel discussion among creative urban thinkers and civically-minded creators examines the essential role of art in the city's continuous evolution. Moderated by journalist/author John Lorinc (Spacing, The Globe and Mail, The Walrus, Atlantic Cities) and featuring Amy Lavender Harris (author of Imagining Toronto), Jacob Zimmer (Director/Performer/Collaborator at Small Wooden Shoe theatre company), and artist Flavio Trevisan.

Exhibition tours will start at 6:00 pm and the panel discussion will begin at 7:00. This event, presented by the Koffler Centre of the Arts in partnership with Diaspora Dialogues, is free and open to the public. All are welcome to attend.