Skatepark, murals and urban art: Ramping up for the Western Fair’s new hot spot

Among the midway rides, barn animals and deep fried treats, a new Western Fair exhibit is showcasing urban arts and athletics to London fairgoers. The Summit, which runs the full two weeks of the fair, features professional skateboarders, BMX riders and rollerbladers alongside graffiti artists and muralists at the Agriplex until September 15.  Ken Galloway, event curator, says the goal of the Summit is to inspire young Londoners to pursue their passions in all types of arts and athletics without permission.  “We’re celebrating the possibility of changing the world using things that people told you not to do growing up, like skateboarding and painting murals on walls,” said Galloway. “All of these subcultures cultivate strong-willed individuals who are willing to do the things they believe in because they believe they’re worth doing.” The 10-day event explores urban art, which refers to visual art that exists in public spaces, and brings it together with athletic activities that also take place on the streets. Alayna Hryclik is painting one of the murals surrounding Queen’s Park at the Western Fair. (Kendra Seguin/CBC) “It’s definitely something that historically has been frowned upon,” said Alayna Hryclik, a local artist who will be one of several...