The Corso Italia Community Mural

The Corso Italia Community Mural, completed in May 2023, serves as a vibrant visual archive of Little Italy's heritage at 125 Preston Street. Artist Ryan Smeeton anchored the composition with a traditional Tarantella dancer, symbolizing the enduring folk customs of the region. This central figure is surrounded by landmarks that map the neighborhood's evolution: the modern Corso Italia Archway, the historic St. Anthony’s Church (a spiritual hub since 1908), and Chappie’s Lunch, recognized as the street's first Italian restaurant back in 1945. A yellow Fiat rounds out the imagery, offering a nod to the local Italian Car Club and its long-running annual parades. The project came to fruition through the support of the National Congress of Italian Canadians and local property owners.

(Source: https://prestonstreet.com/, Adapted for OTTAWALLS.art)