YZD/Northcrest Digital Mural Commission
Application Deadline: Thursday, April 23, 2026, 12:00 pm
Apply at this link
OCAD University’s RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers is excited to partner with YZD/Northcrest to create an exclusive call-for-submissions from members of the OCAD U community.
YZD/Northcrest is seeking one artist to develop and produce a new digital mural for installation on the perimeter fencing at an upcoming experiential and community hub, located near Dufferin and Wilson Ave in Toronto.
The selected artist/designer will be awarded a project fee of $18,000 CAD.
PARTNER & PROJECT DETAILS:
YZD by Northcrest Developments is the largest urban redevelopment in North America underway. Called YZD, the call-sign of the former Downsview Airport, its 370 acres will become several neighbourhoods, featuring homes, parks, shops, schools and workplaces. At the centre of the site will sit a new hub for experimentation and community gathering that bridges YZD's aviation legacy with its future as an international cultural destination.
The scope of work for this project includes:
Development and creation of a digital artwork that functions as a repeatable linear pattern or illustration (with repeating elements) capable of scaling across the perimeter of an event space. The artwork will be printed by YZD on scrim vinyl and installed along fence sections ranging from approximately 20 to 400 feet in length. Total length is just over 1,000 feet in length at 8 feet tall. The design must maintain visual continuity, rhythm, and impact across these varying lengths. The intervention should create a strong visual identity for the event space while contributing to a welcoming and energetic environment that reflects YZD’s transformation from an aviation site into a dynamic public destination.
Correspondingly, the theme for this mural imagery is “YZD is where I want to be.”
Prior to undertaking the mural itself, in May, the selected artist will first digitally submit a preliminary concept work to the client for approval.
It is currently anticipated that the mural production period will take place May 1 - June 12, 2026 (subject to change).
