​New public artwork commemorates Brampton’s most beloved resident and Ontario’s 18th Premier

​BRAMPTON, ON (July 30, 2025) – Today, on Bill Davis Day, as proclaimed by Mayor Patrick Brown and City Council to celebrate the significant contributions of Premier William ‘Bill’ Grenville Davis​, the City of Brampton, in partnership with the Government of Ontario and in collaboration with Peel Art Gallery Museum and Archives (PAMA), unveiled a memorial public artwork commemorating his remarkable legacy on Brampton, Peel Region and the province of Ontario. ​ 

Dignitaries gather to unveil the William G. Davis monument at PAMA on Bill Davis Day. Credit: City of Brampton

Mr. Davis served as Ontario’s 18th Premier from 1971 to 1985, and as a Member of Provincial Parliament from 1959 to 1985. He led the creation of Ontario’s college system, TV Ontario, four new universities and expanded support for French and Catholic education. In 2019, the City of Brampton awarded him the Key to the City and officially proclaimed July 30 as Bill Davis Day, an annual day of recognition celebrated in his honour each year. He is remembered as a principled leader, one of Brampton’s most respected residents and as a tireless advocate for public education, the environment and community service. 

The new memorial, titled Contours of Connection, is prominently displayed on the grounds of PAMA, adjacent to Brampton City Hall. Designed by artists Xiaojing Yan and Lilly Otasevic, the sculpture uses layered steel panels to dramatically reveal Davis’ likeness and the words “educate” and “inspire” at different angles, a homage to his enduring passion for education and community service.

​Contours of Connections serves as a lasting tribute to Ontario’s 18th Premier, Bill Davis. Credit: City of Brampton

Reverse side of the Contours of Connections will serve as a lasting tribute to Ontario’s 18th Premier, Bill Davis. Credit: City of Brampton

The City of Brampton is proud to recognize the legacy of Premier Davis with a memorial that will stand as a lasting reminder of his extraordinary contributions to education, civic life and the Brampton community. The City also extends its sincere thanks to the Davis family for their support and collaboration. 

To learn more about this memorial and the legacy of Mr. Davis, visit this website. 

​Public Art in Brampton

Last year, the City endorsed its first Public Art Strategy​, further underscoring its vision to implement public art into community development. Public art helps to create vibrant community spaces in Brampton. Art in public spaces invites residents and visitors to engage with their surroundings, sparking meaningful conversations and reinforcing the City’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Brampton’s collection of public art includes more than 65 public art installations, carefully curated with the input of the community. 

​Quotes

“Premier Bill Davis left a legacy that helped shape modern Ontario, and it all started right here in Brampton. Beyond his role as a provincial leader, he was a personal friend, a mentor and someone whose values and example inspired many. His lifelong commitment to education, community and civic responsibility transformed lives across the province. This monument is a lasting reminder that one person can make a profound difference. We are honoured to celebrate his life and legacy in the city he proudly called home.” - Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton

​“Mr. Davis believed deeply in the power of education, inclusion and service to others. His leadership opened doors for generations of Ontarians, and his legacy continues to guide us today. This monument is a powerful example of how public art can preserve our history, honour those who shaped it and inspire meaningful connection across our community. It stands as a lasting reminder of what is possible when leadership is driven by vision, compassion and a commitment to the public good.” - Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor, Wards 1 and 5; Chair, Community Services, City of Brampton 

​“Premier Bill Davis was a builder and a leader who helped shape the province we know today, from our highways and hospitals to our clean power and transit. This monument is a lasting tribute to a Premier and a champion for the City of Brampton who never stopped working for the people.” - The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario 

​“This monument at PAMA is a meaningful addition to the Region’s commitment to honouring those who have shaped our communities. Through this collaboration, we are proud to help preserve the legacy of Premier Bill Davis, a leader whose integrity, vision and lifelong dedication to public service left an indelible mark on the Region of Peel and the province of Ontario.” - Nando Iannicca, Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Region of Peel 

​“On behalf of our family, we are deeply moved by this tribute to our father. This monument captures his values, his vision and his lifelong dedication to public service. Brampton was always close to his heart, and we thank the City, Region and Province for ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations.” - Neil Davis, son of Premier Bill Davis ​​​​