One of the many distinctive features of the Boyle Street and McCauley neighbourhoods is the rich arts scene. There are literally dozens of people who live here who are visual artists, writers, musicians, or actors.

In addition, there are numerous arts-related organizations located in or near the community such as iHuman, The Works, and the Nina Haggerty Centre. Several of these organizations are profiled in this issue.

Then, there are the events that take place here: Heart of the City, featuring local musical talent and visual art; the McCauley Connects Coffeehouses, Opera in the Park, presenting a full operatic performance under a tent in Caboto Park; East meets West, with music and dance from different cultures represented in the area; several of the Frostival events – even the Lunar New Year celebrations feature dancing and colourful costumes.

After taking the time to think about it, I realized that art is actually all around Boyle Street and McCauley, every day. Look at the murals that are appearing throughout the area. There are heritage homes with beautiful, historic architecture. Church Street is home to some of the most beautiful churches in the city.

Around here, art is more than a hobby or something people like to admire in their spare time. Art is part of the lifestyle in Boyle Street and McCauley. Music, drama, writing, drawing, painting, or some other kind of artistic expression is part of the lives of most of the people I know and work with, either as an artist themselves or simply having a deep passion for one or more art forms. Art indeed makes the city’s core beat to a beautiful rhythm.