Somehow, it seemed appropriate that this chalk rainbow on the sidewalk of my street was the first piece of “graffiti” I saw. I felt like it set the tone for the rest of the day. On July 10, 2011, CB and I went on a walking tour led by Graeme Parry of Toronto Laneways. Starting at Graffiti Alley and ending near Dundas and Ossington, we ventured through three main areas downtown — Queen West, Trinity-Bellwoods, and Little Portugal.

I was awestruck for most of the tour. When I wasn’t shooting photos (or running to catch up with the group), I spent a lot of time standing and staring and smiling. It’s likely the kind of thing I’d like to do again when I’d have more time to move at my own pace. Still, I managed to get some really great shots. Here are some of my favourites.

All those hidden alleys and laneways held so much visual treasure. Quaint little homes and even small businesses resided alongside all the free street art. It’s certainly a side of the city most people haven’t seen, though I highly recommend it. Feel free to check out the rest of my set from that day here.