Documentary | 10 September 2024

An inspiring story about adjusting to life-altering circumstances and the saving grace of creativity and perseverance, "Hobby" is an intimate snapshot of Albino Carreira, the man and visionary behind an eccentrically decorated semi-detached house that has become a well-known and beloved Toronto landmark. The residence, which is located in the city’s Koreatown neighbourhood, captivates onlookers, evoking both bewilderment and awe with its exterior adorned in an eclectic mix of plastic bugs, seashells, coins, and other assorted knickknacks. A Portuguese immigrant, Carreira’s life was forever changed in 1993 when a workplace injury confined him to his home and left him on a permanent disability pension. He began decorating his mailbox to pass time, which eventually led him on an obsessive journey to cover every square inch of his residence with unexpected creative embellishments. This ongoing monumental project serves as a powerful expression of Carreira’s indomitable spirit.