"This is random as hell and so poorly done"
A captivating new mural of Sidhu Moose Wala has taken centre stage in Toronto, igniting passionate debates among locals.
The artwork, adorning the side of the Red Moon Bakery in the trendy New Toronto neighbourhood, has become the talk of the town.
What exactly has captured their attention?
Well, it’s a unique blend of artistic expression and pop culture references that has both gun-wary citizens and art enthusiasts engaged in a fierce tug-of-war.
At the heart of the mural stands Sidhu Moose Wala, the beloved Indian rapper who tragically passed away in 2022.
He is surrounded by legendary icons Tupac and Biggie Smalls, as well as characters from the iconic films Scarface and The Godfather.
The larger-than-life tribute paints a vivid picture of music and cinematic history converging on a single canvas.
However, it is the portrayal of Sidhu Moose Wala gripping a pistol that has stirred opinion.
A South Etobicoke Facebook group has demanded the mural’s immediate removal from the wall and even orchestrated a boycott against the artwork.
Interestingly, some locals argue that the pistol depicted is a symbolic protest against the rampant gun violence that has claimed the lives of four out of the five figures immortalised on the mural.
However, there’s no denying that a large part of the Toronto natives are not shy about their dismay.
Why is it only Sidhu holding a weapon? Why are movie characters included? Why were they chosen as a group to pay tribute to?
Brandon Rothberg said on Twitter:
“Hahaha, WTF? This is random as hell and so poorly done. Who commissioned this?
“At least it’s in Brampton, so technically not Toronto, and thankfully not many of us will have to ever see it.”
Another Canadian native, Blaine White, said
“This is so badly conceived. This is why art needs editorial direction and I’m an artist.
“What the heck are you doing putting Marlon Brando and Al Pacino with rappers and a guy with a gun?”
Finally, Frank Fragala expressed his thoughts on social media:
“Take this garbage down – you are depicting gangbangers.”
“Guy with a gun, Brando, Pacino, Tupac – these are entertainers, this is not art.
“It’s an influence of mobster ideology and it’s wrong, especially with all the violence going on, we do not need more bad influence. This is not culture it’s cult.”
Watch a video about the mural here:
Many Canadian towns and cities have paid homage and tribute to Sidhu Moose Wala who is a massive sensation in the country, even after his passing.
There are many murals that have honoured his life but this one has definitely caused the biggest controversy.
Some say it’s a portrayal of real life and other’s say it’s promoting the very violence the country is trying to eradicate.
What do you think of the mural? Is it a touching memorial or offensive?
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