Introduction to The Art Gallery of Ontario
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of the most prominent art museums in Canada, located in Toronto. It’s one of the largest art museums in North America. The AGO houses an extensive collection of more than 90,000 works of art, including pieces by Canadian, Indigenous, and European artists. The AGO is renowned for its diverse collection, featuring paintings, sculptures, photography, and more, spanning from historical to contemporary art.
History and Background of The Art Gallery of Ontario
The AGO has a rich history dating back to 1900 when it was established as the Art Museum of Toronto. It underwent several name changes before adopting its current name in 1966. The museum has undergone significant expansions and renovations over the years. The AGO underwent a major transformation with the addition of the Frank Gehry-designed Walker Court and the contemporary glass-and-wood facade in 2008. Gehry’s redesign brought a modern and distinctive architectural style to the AGO, enhancing its presence in Toronto.
Architecture of The Art Gallery of Ontario
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) underwent a transformative architectural renovation in 2008, led by renowned Canadian architect Frank Gehry. The redesign aimed to revitalize and expand the gallery space. Gehry’s design introduced a distinctive facade featuring glass and titanium elements, creating a dynamic and contemporary look for the AGO. One of the key additions is the iconic sculptural staircase at the entrance, known as the Galleria Italia. This sweeping staircase faces Dundas Street and is enclosed in a glass and wood structure, providing a unique blend of natural light and architectural aesthetics. Inside, the museum’s spaces were reconfigured to enhance the visitor experience and accommodate the growing art collection. Gehry’s design for the AGO is recognized for its combination of modern materials and innovative forms, contributing to the cultural landscape of Toronto and reflecting the city’s commitment to both tradition and modernity.
The Art Gallery of Ontario: Collections
The AGO’s extensive collection spans from European masterpieces to contemporary Canadian and Indigenous art. It houses over 90,000 works, including pieces by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, Van Gogh, and the Group of Seven. The museum also boasts a notable collection of African and Oceanic art. The AGO has a strong focus on Canadian and Indigenous art, showcasing the diversity of artistic expressions in the country. This includes a dedicated gallery for Indigenous art, highlighting the contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists. Some highlights include:
- Canadian Art: The AGO features a significant collection of Canadian art, showcasing works from the Group of Seven, Emily Carr, and other influential Canadian artists. The collection provides insight into the development of Canadian artistic identity.
- Indigenous Art: Recognizing the importance of Indigenous art, the AGO houses a notable collection of works by Indigenous artists, representing diverse cultures and perspectives. This includes traditional and contemporary pieces.
- European Art: The European collection encompasses a variety of styles and periods, from medieval to modern art. Visitors can explore works by European masters such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Gogh.
- Contemporary Art: The AGO is committed to showcasing contemporary art, with a focus on emerging artists and innovative practices. The collection reflects the dynamic nature of the art world.
- African and Oceanic Art: The museum has a collection of African and Oceanic art, offering a glimpse into the rich artistic traditions of these regions.
- Photography: Photography is well-represented at the AGO, featuring works by both historical and contemporary photographers. The collection highlights the evolution of photographic art over time.
- Sculpture and Decorative Arts: The AGO houses a diverse array of sculptures and decorative arts, including pieces from different cultures and time periods.
These collections collectively contribute to the AGO’s reputation as a cultural institution that offers a comprehensive exploration of art history and contemporary artistic expression.
Exhibitions
The AGO hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, featuring both national and international artists. These exhibitions cover a wide range of artistic styles and periods, providing visitors with diverse and dynamic art experiences.
Current Exhibitions at The Art Gallery of Ontario
Keith Haring: Art is for Everybody
Keith Haring (1958–1990) was an influential American artist known for his distinctive and iconic visual language that emerged in the 1980s. Some key aspects of his art include: Pop Art and Street Art Influence, Iconic symbols, social and political commentary, public art, and activism.
Haring’s work is often associated with the Pop Art movement and the street art culture of New York City. His art draws inspiration from graffiti, cartoons, and other popular visual elements. Haring’s art is characterized by simple, bold lines and iconic symbols, such as radiant babies, barking dogs, and dancing figures. These symbols convey a sense of energy, movement, and vitality. Beyond its visual appeal, Haring’s art often carried social and political messages. He used his work as a platform to address issues like AIDS awareness, apartheid, drug addiction, and social injustice. The Radiant Baby, for instance, became a symbol of hope and life. Haring gained significant recognition for his public art, particularly his chalk drawings on unused advertising panels in subway stations. These drawings, often created in a quick, gestural style, became a distinctive feature of his artistic practice.
Haring was actively involved in various social causes. He used his art to raise awareness and funds for issues close to his heart, especially the fight against AIDS. The Keith Haring Foundation, established after his death, continues to support organizations addressing AIDS, children’s programs, and the arts. Keith Haring’s art has left a lasting impact on contemporary art and popular culture. His imagery is widely recognized and has been featured in numerous exhibitions worldwide. Haring’s ability to blend accessibility with deeper social commentary has contributed to his enduring influence. Overall, Keith Haring’s art is celebrated for its visual appeal, social engagement, and its ability to communicate powerful messages through seemingly simple and universal symbols.
KAWS: FAMILY
KAWS, a pseudonym for Brian Donnelly, is an American artist and designer known for his distinctive style that merges elements of street art, pop culture, and fine art. Some key points about KAWS and his art: companion series, graffiti roots, pop culture references, sculptures, and toys.
KAWS gained widespread recognition for his “Companion” series, which features a character with a skull and crossbones head, X-ed out eyes, and gloved hands. This character has become an iconic symbol in contemporary art. Like many street artists, KAWS began his career by creating graffiti. His early work included subversive alterations of advertisements, where he replaced elements with his own characters. KAWS often incorporates pop culture references into his art, including characters from popular cartoons and comics. He appropriates and transforms well-known images, giving them a unique and often subversive twist. In addition to paintings and prints, KAWS has created three-dimensional sculptures and limited-edition vinyl toys. These sculptures often feature enlarged versions of his characters and have been displayed in both gallery settings and public spaces.
KAWS has collaborated with various brands and artists. Notably, he has worked with companies like Nike, creating limited-edition sneakers, and has collaborated with musicians and fashion designers, bridging the gap between fine art and commercial culture. His work has been displayed in major cities, attracting a diverse audience and contributing to the blurring of boundaries between street art and the traditional art world.
KAWS has become highly collectible, with his works fetching significant prices at auctions. His influence extends beyond the art world, impacting fashion, design, and popular culture. The “Companion” character is central to KAWS’s body of work. It has evolved in various forms, from paintings and sculptures to large-scale installations. The character’s appeal lies in its ability to simultaneously evoke feelings of familiarity and alienation. In summary, KAWS is a contemporary artist who has successfully navigated the intersection of street art, pop culture, and fine art, creating a distinctive visual language that resonates with a broad audience.
Some Notable Works at The Art Gallery of Ontario
VINCENT VAN GOGH
born Groot Zundert, Netherlands, 1853 died Auvers-sur-Oise, France, 1890
A woman with a spade, seen from behind
1885
PABLO PICASSO
born Málaga, Spain, 1881, died Mougins, France, 1973
The Crouching Woman
1902
PABLO PICASSO
Nude with Clasped Hands
1905-1906
EDGAR DEGAS
born and died Paris, France, 1834-1917
Woman at Her Bath
c. 1895
PETER PAUL RUBENS
born Siegen, Westphalia (now Germany), 1577 died Antwerp, Spanish Netherlands (now Belgium), 1640
The Massacre of the Innocents
c. 1610
CLAUDE MONET
born Paris, France, 1840 died Giverny, France, 1926
Vétheuil in Summer
1879
HENRI MATISSE
born Le Cateau-Cambrésis, France, 1869 died Nice, France, 1954
Jeannette V
conceived 1916; cast 1930
CLAUDE MONET
Aiguille and the Porte d’Aval
1885-1886
Educational Initiatives at The Art Gallery of Ontario
The AGO is committed to education and offers programs for visitors of all ages. This includes guided tours, workshops, and educational resources aimed at enhancing the understanding and appreciation of art. The museum actively engages with the community through outreach programs, events, and collaborations. It strives to make art accessible to a broad audience and fosters a sense of inclusivity. Some of the educational programs and initiatives at AGO include:
- Guided Tours: The AGO offers guided tours led by knowledgeable educators and guides. These tours provide insights into the gallery’s collections, exhibitions, and the stories behind the artworks.
- School Programs: The AGO provides a range of educational programs for school groups, tailored to different age levels and curriculum requirements. These programs aim to enhance students’ understanding of art and foster critical thinking skills.
- Art Classes and Workshops: The gallery conducts art classes and workshops for various age groups and skill levels. These hands-on sessions allow participants to explore their creativity, learn new techniques, and gain a deeper appreciation for art.
- Family Programs: AGO offers family-friendly programs designed to engage children and their families in interactive and creative activities. These initiatives often include art-making sessions, storytelling, and gallery exploration.
- Lectures and Talks: The AGO hosts lectures, talks, and panel discussions featuring artists, scholars, and experts in the field. These events provide an opportunity for visitors to gain in-depth knowledge about specific artists, movements, or themes in art.
- Community Outreach: The AGO is involved in community outreach programs, bringing art experiences to diverse communities. This may involve collaborating with schools, community centers, and organizations to make art accessible to a broader audience.
- Digital Learning: In response to the evolving landscape of education, the AGO has likely incorporated digital learning initiatives. This may include online resources, virtual tours, and digital platforms that facilitate remote engagement with the gallery’s collections and programs.
- Accessibility Initiatives: The AGO is likely to have initiatives focused on making art accessible to people of all abilities. This may involve offering resources for individuals with visual or hearing impairments and creating inclusive spaces within the gallery.
Educational initiatives at the Art Gallery of Ontario aim to make art a dynamic and enriching experience for visitors, fostering a lifelong appreciation for creativity and cultural expression. Overall, the Art Gallery of Ontario stands as a cultural hub in Toronto, offering a blend of historic and contemporary art while actively contributing to the vibrant art scene in Canada.
General Information: Admission Fees
25 and Under FREE
Individuals 25 years and under can enjoy free admission. Visitors 18 – 25 years must show valid ID to claim their pass.
AGO Annual Pass $35
Enjoy unlimited visits all year.
Adult admission $30
For $5 more, purchase an AGO Annual Pass for unlimited visits!
Indigenous Peoples
The AGO offers complimentary admission to all Indigenous Peoples.
AGO Free Wednesday Nights
Free admission to our collection galleries every Wednesday from 6-9 pm is a longstanding tradition. Tickets must be pre-booked online. Check out Free Wednesday Nightsfor everything you need to know.
