Like much of Thomas’s work, Ernest and Ruth (Exuberant Pink) explores the shifting of perspectives through audience participation and interaction. This sculpture is one of a series of bench-artworks by Thomas that replicate the outline of iconic cartoon speech balloons - in this case a classic speech bubble. They are often named after his relatives and this particular artwork takes the names of his grandfather and grandmother. Shown alongside Saverio and Daisy (Navel) on the new esplanade in Biidaasige Park, together Thomas's sculptures will frame the impressive Toronto skyline and act as windows onto our urban experience.

Previously exhibited in cities around the world, Thomas’s sculptures take on site and context-specific meanings in each location. The artist notes that “when viewers occupy the piece, they are encouraged to contemplate what it means to inhabit their own speech and beliefs.” At LAT, we invite you to do the same come late July when this section of the park is open.