Press Release: Virtual / eXtended / Augmented Reality Activism Illuminates Ontario Place for Winter Solstice on December 21st

For Immediate Release: 12/19/2023

Toronto, ON – In a groundbreaking event merging technology and activism, Ontario Place will witness a transformative spectacle on the evening of December 21st, marking the Winter Solstice. The significant black border fence, standing as a demarcation between the City of Toronto and the Province of Ontario, will transcend its intended purpose and serve as a canvas for a pioneering initiative in Virtual, eXtended, and Augmented Reality activism.

Initially adorned with chalk, the black border fence will undergo a metamorphosis, evolving into the world’s largest computer display screen through the application of Metavision—a revolutionary concept pioneered by Steve Mann during the 1960s and 1970s. Mann’s visionary work laid the foundation for the establishment of Meta, an augmented reality company co-founded by Ben Sand, Meron Gribetz, Raymond Lo, and Mann himself.

Join us at the black wall on Thursday, December 21st, starting from 9 pm onwards for an immersive experience. Meet Meta co-founder Steve Mann, renowned lightpainting artist Reid Godshaw, and Anita Krajnc, co-founder of Toronto Pig Save and the global Animal Save Movement, along with other passionate advocates concerned about the privatization of public spaces and its repercussions.

Discover the art of Metavision and learn to craft virtual, extended, and augmented overlays for sharing on social media platforms.

The evening will commence around 9 pm as we collectively “paint” the wall, culminating in a grand solstice meetup precisely at 10:27 pm—the exact time of the solstice. Join us for a countdown and the harmonious sounds of our theme song.

For more information on Metavision, please visit:

Join us as we redefine boundaries and celebrate the convergence of technology, art, and activism at Ontario Place this Winter Solstice.