The Durham Call to Art

In 2025, the Region of Durham and STEPS Public Art issued a challenge to Canadian artists: transform utility-focused transit stops into vibrant community spaces. The goal was to “inject community-driven art into the public spaces that matter,” creating meaningful connections between art and place.

The criteria were clear and rigorous. Prototyping a public bench isn’t just about aesthetics; it requires a deep understanding of feasibility, durability, and safety. Every submission was judged on its ability to withstand the harsh Ontario elements and the daily wear of a high-traffic transit corridor.

From Sketchbook to Stainless Steel

The “Doodle Bench” represents a unique collaboration between artist Kim Collins and fabricator Doug Gierula. While the design captures the whimsical, free-flowing energy of a hand-drawn doodle, the structural skeleton is pure Klacko—heavy-duty, precision-engineered, and built to last generations.

Industrial Standards for Public Safety

Public art in a transit environment faces unique challenges. Following the Region’s strict specifications, the Doodle Bench was engineered for maximum structural integrity:

• 🛠️ 300 lbs Load Capacity: Designed for safe, accessible seating for multiple users.
• 🛠️ Vehicle Strike Resilience: Materials and mounting were chosen specifically to maintain safety in roadside environments.
• 🛠️ Precision Mounting: Anchored to a concrete pad with 10mm lag bolts and industrial-grade concrete inserts for permanent stability.
• 🛠️ Marine-Grade Durability: Leveraging Klacko’s expertise in anti-corrosive metals to ensure the bench remains a community staple through road salt and winter storms.

A New Standard for Newcastle

By marrying industrial fabrication with community art, we’ve helped transform a routine bus stop into a landmark. The Doodle Bench is more than a place to sit—it’s a testament to the fact that public infrastructure can be both incredibly tough and visually inspiring.