Urban Art “Something for Everyone” was a 4 x 6 foot detailed pen and ink artwork exhibited at the Edward Day Gallery. Inspired by the theme “Obsession” the work took over 250 hours to create using  small technical pens. The illustration featured multiple perspectives of an iconic metropolis complete with interior and exterior architecture, street scenes, billboard bombardments and chaotic characterizations.

The drawing was organized as a hierarchical mythology beginning at the bottom with both life and death and moving upwards through various societal platitudes. At the top, images of wealth and prestige appear as a somewhat questionable utopia. The overall effect of the artwork is a simultaneously honest and satirical interpretation of the life’s goals, the pursuit of happiness and the validity of monetary success.

Although this was presented in one of Toronto’s most prestigious galleries, the drawing itself was made on the downtown sidewalks of Queen Street West. In order to maintain the obsessive quality of the street art drawings, which were constantly inspired and affected by chance public encounters, it was decided that this work should be created as an extended performance. Wheels were attached to the 4 x 6 foot panel so that the drawing could be transported down to the busy shopping district. For 30 days at about 8 hour each, Mike worked on the detailed “Something for everyone” while interacting, discussing and taking directions from the endlessly indulgent Queen Street summer crowds.

“I don’t see Mike having to “fit” into the Toronto artscene. He uses one of the most accessible surface mediums going, - the sidewalk and outdoor exhibitions. He is doing what many artists hope to achieve through gallery exhibitions. Parsons, however seems to continue to remain independent of the art system, and capture a sincere following. Audiences recognize the work he produces. I feel he fits outside the Toronto art system, but within the Toronto cityscape, making the city that much richer.” Curator Kelly McCray 

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