Nothing beats a summer day spent with sunlight, delicious food, and a kaleidoscope of colours.

Strathcona offers all that and more in 10 Blocks of Passion, a walkable summer street gallery in Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood.

Each piece of art in 10 Blocks of Passion tells a unique and compelling story. And all of it was created by Vancouver artists who were inspired by Strathcona’s local business owners.

These are the gutsy entrepreneurs and cultural beacons who contribute so much to the neighbourhood's character. And their stories brim with passion, determination, and hope. 

Participating artists include notable designers, architects, and illustrators such as Tierney Milne, Tiffany Blaise, Hanna Benihoud, Greg Rae, Joni Taylor, and Hanna Lee Joshi.

As one example, Montreal-born designer Tierney Milne found her muse in Dusty, the owner of Agro Roasters. 

“He has a dogged work ethic, tireless grit and strong attention to detail in his craft," Milne said. "This piece is an interpretation of the love and attention Dusty puts into curating international coffee blends, as well as the representative patterns inspired by the origins he’s passionate about—Africa, Honduras, and Brazil.”            

Fresh off the Made in Strathcona’s Most Walkable Street 2021 initiative, the Strathcona Business Improvement Association launched 10 Blocks of Passion to continue inspiring Metro Vancouver residents to #WalkStrathcona and learn more about what makes this area one of Vancouver’s most inspiring neighbourhoods.

“Strathcona has a long history of art and culture—it’s Vancouver’s best hidden gem,” said Johanna Lauyanto, sustainability and communications coordinator at the Strathcona BIA. “Through 10 Blocks of Passion, we want to share tales from behind the scenes of our diverse array of businesses with Vancouver residents and visitors alike."

The best part of this event? It’s completely free.

The 10 Blocks of Passion runs from now until September, and artwork will be installed throughout the summer.

There’s also a digital map of the neighbourhood online, which includes locations of the artwork, at madeinstrathcona.com.

Those attending “10 Blocks of Passion” and share specific posts on the business partners’ social media sites benefit from discounts on food and drinks offered by local stores.