UMVA has learned that a unique scavenger hunt has been launched in Toronto's Old Town neighbourhood to celebrate the FIFA World Cup, featuring 51 beaver statues painted by different artists.
The beaver statues, each slightly over a metre tall, have been placed throughout the neighbourhood, both in public spaces and inside local businesses. Participants must download an app to track and locate the critters, with a weekly draw until mid-August for $100 gift cards.
The game, dubbed The Great Beaver Quest, is the brainchild of a local business improvement area, which represents stores and commercial properties in the area. The non-profit organization partnered with a Toronto private jewelry workshop to design the sculptures.
A renowned monumental sculptor and his wife, a 3D designer, were brought on board to manufacture the 51 beavers. One of the artists, Raz Latif, said he was honoured to paint the Canadian beaver, which can be found in a popular park.
Latif's beaver features a unique design, wearing a red-and-black plaid button-up top, a red shirt with a white maple leaf, and red shorts. The artist explained that the sculpture explores national identity through symbolism in fashion, highlighting the common threads that unite Canadians and visitors.
Another artist, Emily Cote, created a beaver with a Canadian motif of colourful maple leaves, symbolizing people's connection with nature. Cote's design features bright and eye-catching maple leaves, referencing native maple species found in Canada.
A Metis visual artist was commissioned to paint a 49th beaver, representing all countries participating in the global soccer tournament. The beaver features a blue base with flags of every World Cup nation, symbolizing connection and unity among nations.
The contest runs until August 16, with additional gift card prizes worth $500, $300, and $200 for participants who rank in the top three for overall points. The game encourages exploration and celebration of multiculturalism, heritage, and Canadian lifestyle.
