SUMO project is a multi-disciplinary studio which practice focuses on the integration of Art, Architecture and Urban Design. Believing that that “specialization is for insects”, we find opportunities in unusual places, to explore how our creative practice can contribute to improve the spaces we inhabit, public or private, with the use of art.
LATEST NEWS
JAPAN: ART EXHIBIT, STUDIO LIFE AND RESEARCH
During our residency at Midori Art Center in Tokyo, we immersed ourselves for two months in the city’s rhythm—splitting our time between the print studio, research, and preparing for the exhibition.
MENTORPODS
is a creative mentorship platform supporting novice* artists in developing and pitching public art concepts with expert guidance. Running in summer 2025, the program bridged artistic practice with the practical realities of creating public art.
SUMO HITCHHIKER’S GUIDE
TO PUBLIC ART (for Beginners)
Is a concise, visual reference guide providing a clear overview of the public art process and its steps, structured around a main path, supporting information, and practical advice to help new artists navigate the system.
LATEST PUBLICATIONS
INCLUSIVE MENTORSHIP
A collaboration between SUMO Project and ZWARTstudio, with the objective of developing a new mentorship prototype or tool kit to address barriers in the public art sector. Some of which we have identified through our work as members of the Toronto Public Art Commission (TPAC).
BORDERS AND BONDS (OUR BOOK)
The book explores the contributions of art in the public realm and communal engagement, as a tool to build trust, capacity, and enhance social cohesion and bonding to effectively respond to current urban challenges.
MENTORPODS OUTLINE
Much like the “Canadian experience” barrier faced by newcomers seeking employment, access to most public art opportunities in Ontario is portfolio-based. This creates a catch-2.
DESIGN
URBAN DESIGN AND THINKING
We develop “visions” that serve as frameworks for both short and long-term development.
Focusing on the community, its people and the improvement of their overall experience, we use design to shape the built form and the public realm to bring social, economic, and spatial benefits to the neighborhoods
We believe that Art has a major role in the
development of urban spaces, balancing their functionality with their livability.
Urban Strategies & Design
• Master Planning
• Pilot Projects
• Implementation Road map
• Creative Place Making
PUBLIC ART & ART STRATEGIES
We coordinate artists, fabricators, architects, designers, engineers, contractors, and
construction managers from concept and artist selection, through to project close-out.
Artist Selection
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Commissioned site-specific works
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Detailed Public Art Plan
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Art Curation (interiors) and selection
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Acquisitions
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Custom Installations
We integrate art into architectural and building elements to enrich spaces with cultural significance, evoke emotional responses, and foster a deeper connection between people and their environment.
This integration enhances the aesthetic appeal of architecture, promotes creative expression, and contributes to a vibrant environment.
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Art Masterplanning
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Art Integration
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Creative Vision/Approach
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Spatial Art Strategy
BECOME PART OF THE CIRCLE
Get in touch at admin@sumoproject.com