“Harmony Across Horizons serves as a visual celebration of the unique bond between Burlington and Itabashi, promoting the values of peace, unity, and global understanding. The design encapsulates the essence of Itabashi’s meaning, “plank bridge,” while celebrating the beauty of plum trees, swirling water energy, and employing a woodcut-like style. The mural’s focal point is a gracefully arched plank bridge, symbolizing the connection between Burlington and Itabashi. This is mirrored on the back of the design, with a representation of the Burlington Canal Lift Bridge. The bridges serve as a visual metaphor for the cultural ties that unite the two cities.”
Ann-Marie Cheung 2024
Vinyl wrap mural located in Spencer Smith Park, Burlington, Canada
Mayor Sakamoto (Itabashi), Mayor Meed Ward (Burlington) and Ann-Marie Cheung (Artist)
“The City of Burlington hosted a delegation from our twin city, Itabashi, Japan, over Canada Day weekend. Following a courtesy call inside our council chambers on Sunday (June 30) to welcome our guests, including Mayor Sakamoto, a Sakura tree was planted at City Hall and then public art was unveiled at Spencer Smith Park.
Ann-Marie Cheung’s “Harmony Across Horizons” serves as a visual celebration of the unique bond between Burlington and Itabashi, promoting the values of peace, unity, and global understanding. The design encapsulates the essence of Itabashi’s meaning, “plank bridge,” while celebrating the beauty of cherry trees, swirling water energy, and employing a woodcut-like style. The mural’s focal point is a gracefully arched plank bridge, symbolizing the connection between Burlington and Itabashi. This is mirrored on the back of the design, with a representation of the Burlington Canal Lift Bridge. The bridges serve as a visual metaphor for the cultural ties that unite the two cities.
Our guests then enjoyed the wonderful Canada Day celebrations at Spencer Smith Park, which included a Japanese drumming performance by Nagata Shachu.
The delegation then presented the City of Burlington with a gift (a woodblock print from famed artist Utagawa Hiroshige) at a special dinner before they took in the spectacular drone show and fireworks display.”