Freedom of Expression, 2012
Located: McMurtry Gardens of Justice (361 University Avenue)
Artist: Marlene Hilton Moore
Website: http://www.marlenehiltonmoore.com
Contact: marlenehiltonmoore@gmail.com
Copyright 2016, Public Art of Toronto. All rights reserved.

As you walk under the rotunda and into the McMurtry Gardens of Justice, you will notice two large figures flanking the laneway.  The statues represent two fundamental Canadian rights. To the left is The Freedom of Expression, crafted by Marlene Hilton Moore. Moore is a respected Canadian sculptor, known for many works of public art including Weedookdaadiwin (2014) located at The Simcoe County Museum in Barrie and The Valiants Memorial (2004-2006) located in Confederation Square in Ottawa. Her work in the garden was unveiled in 2012 as part of Roy McMurtry’s 80^th birthday celebrations.

With The Freedom of Expression, Moore creates a sense of openness and reception. The female figure, with arms relaxed yet extended at her side, invites the viewer closer to hear her words. The papers in her hand contain her thoughts and opinions. She has complete freedom to express them in any way she sees fit. Her robe is simple and lacking adornment so as not to distract from the importance of her message.

*The title of this piece is based on a quote by George Orwell: “Freedom is the right to tell people what they do not want to hear.”

Find out more about the McMurtry Garden of Justice and the man who inspired it.