Jyhling Lee’s “Reflector” Sculpture Brings Origami-Inspired Art to Downtown Toronto

Toronto just got a shiny new addition, and it’s impossible to miss. Local designer Jyhling Lee has taken her love for origami and transformed it into an impressive stainless steel sculpture right in the heart of Queen Street West—one of the city’s most iconic streets. Introducing Reflector, a five-meter by three-meter mirrored masterpiece that’s as much a work of art as it is a playground for selfie lovers.

Inspired by the intricate folds of origami, Lee’s creation is a sleek, angular half-circle that hits the ground at several spiked points, almost as if it’s slicing into the sidewalk. But don’t worry, it’s all perfectly safe. The stainless steel planes are more about making a bold statement and catching the light in all the right ways. In fact, the reflective surface is specifically designed to draw people in—because let’s face it, who can resist a shiny object, especially one that mirrors your best angles?

The material choice wasn’t just about aesthetics, though. Lee wanted something “highly durable” to withstand the unpredictable Toronto weather. Her mirrored steel is corrosion-resistant, easy to clean, and practically begging for a little rain to give it that extra gleam. Plus, it’s got built-in lights that turn on at sunset and off at sunrise, making Reflector a glowing beacon throughout the night.

But this sculpture isn’t just a pretty face—it’s interactive, too. Commissioned by the Queen Street West Business Improvement Area (QSWBIA) and the City of Toronto, the piece is intended to reflect the lively, bustling energy of Queen Street West. And for Lee, it’s personal—she’s been familiar with the area since childhood, so this is as much about contributing to the community as it is about adding to the city’s artistic landscape.

Whether you’re a Toronto local or just passing through, this public artwork is designed to be an “inhabitable environment.” So don’t be shy—snap a photo, walk around it, or just take a moment to appreciate how Jyhling Lee has taken something as delicate as origami and turned it into a massive, durable, and captivating work of art.

Want to see it for yourself? Head down to Queen Street West and experience Reflector in all its reflective glory. It’s a new must-see in Toronto’s vibrant art scene, and trust us—you won’t want to miss it.

Photos courtesy of Kurtis Chen