OCAD University was disturbed to learn about a recent hate crime that took place near the University’s campus last week during which a public sculpture next to the Art Gallery of Ontario was defaced with antisemitic graffiti.
According to information released by the Toronto Police Service, it is reported that:
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on Wednesday, July 13, 2022, at approximately, 6:15 a.m., a man was observed using white spray-paint to deface the "Couch Monster" sculpture, which is located at the exterior of the Art Gallery of Ontario at the Northeast corner
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antisemitic graffiti was located at the front of the sculpture
The suspect is described as being in his 50s, having a medium build, with brown and grey shoulder-length hair. He has a balding spot on the top of his head with grey and white cropped facial stubble. He was wearing a black t-shirt with a "Tobacconist" logo on the front, a black sleeveless hoodie with faded black and grey jeans, black Adidas sneakers with blue soles, a black-banded wristwatch on each wrist, and was carrying a black drawstring bag.
Images of the suspect have been released.
OCAD University encourages members of our community who may have witnessed this activity or have any other information to contact Toronto Police at 416-808-2222 or to contact Crime Stoppers.
OCAD University is committed to supporting equity, diversity, inclusion and the dignity of all people, and will not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or bullying against any individual or community group. Harassment and discrimination violate an individual’s human rights and this conduct runs contrary to the University’s fundamental values.