Yesterday the good citizens of Toronto made it abundantly clear that they would not stand for the public space abuse Astral Media is passing off as "Info Panels". cARTography involved 30 Artists reclaiming what are supposed to be helpful info stations, but are instead new advertising venues. Enjoy the whole project at their website… [HERE]

For Immediate Release  July 8, 2012 

Astral Media Pillars Reclaimed in cARTographyTO Project ‘Putting The Info Back In Info Pillar’ ​

This weekend, cARTographyTO replaced ads in Astral Media “Info” Pillars with art-maps created by Toronto residents and local artists. This site-specific art, donated by over 30 concerned citizens (and supported by many times more), offers new possibilities for these spaces, and information about the surrounding neighbourhoods. This is a response to sidewalk billboards, and the erosion and privatization of public spaces. ​

A spokesperson for cARTographyTO stated, “These structures are billboards masquerading as sources of useful public information. When you look at the pillars, it’s hard to find the maps, and this goes against the City’s own public space guidelines. How could City Hall allow this to happen? Beyond mere visual pollution, these pillars are a safety hazard. And Astral’s influence on our city is a public insult and embarrassment - more power has been given to those who already have the loudest voices, to the detriment of all who use these spaces.”