5 Lifeguard Towers Transformed into Works of Art

"Winter Stations international design competition -organized by RAW Design, Ferris + Associates, and Curio-invites artists, architects and designers to re-imagine an unusual typology, lifeguard stations, and transform them into dynamic works of public art. Set against the backdrop of Lake Ontario, the five winning proposals are then built, and remain on display for a 6-week exhibition that is free and open to all."

"This year's theme, Mirage, challenges entrants to explore the edges of reality, asking: what do we long to see? In the age of AI and digital echo chambers, where is the line between what is seen and what is real? Selected by a blind jury of leading art, design, architecture, and urbanism experts, the winning projects tap into this theme from a range of thoughtful angles and engaging materialities."

"Designed by Saskatoon-based art director and 3D artist Will Cuthbert, Embrace is an invitation to discover a new reality, to change your perspective and to be cocooned by the hands. And the people love it: hands reach out to touch, mirroring their giant neighbors."

Winter Stations, an international design competition in its 12th year, invites artists, architects, and designers to reimagine lifeguard stations as dynamic public art installations on Toronto's Woodbine Beach. Five winning proposals are selected by a blind jury of experts and displayed for six weeks free to the public. This year's theme, Mirage, challenges entrants to explore the edges of reality and examine what we long to see, particularly relevant in an age of AI and digital echo chambers. The installations feature thoughtful designs and engaging materials that tap into questions about perception and authenticity. Notable works include Embrace, featuring giant wooden hands with rainbow-striped palms inviting perspective shifts, and Crest, evoking Lake Ontario's waves with waffled plywood patterns.

Read at Design Milk