Toronto Waterfront photo exhibition captures 40 years of change

"The waterfront is one of Toronto's most important public spaces, yet parts of it have been reshaped by forces outside of public view," Polo says. "Steven's photographs offer us a way to pause, to really look, and to think critically about the changes happening around us."

For Polo, hosting this work at TMU adds another meaning. Exhibitions like On the Edge bring real urban issues into the university, sparking dialogue beyond the classroom.

"A show like this doesn't just show photographs," he says. "It opens up space for students, faculty and visitors to reflect on what kind of city we want to build."

Architectural Science professor Julia Jamrozik curated the exhibition, with design by Hyo Yeon Tiana Lee. An illustrated brochure includes essays by Evans, Polo and journalist John Lorinc.

For Evans, the work focuses on memory, not nostalgia. By documenting Toronto's waterfront, he hopes to encourage others to look more closely at their surroundings and to recognize the stakes of transformation.

"Cities are always changing," Evans says. "But unless we document and share those changes, it's easy to forget what came before. Photography helps us hold on to that knowledge, so we can have better conversations about the future."