Art Gallery of Ontario: World art in a vibrant North American city
The Art Gallery of Ontario, or the AGO, is one of the largest art museums in North America. Located in downtown Toronto’s Chinatown district, the AGO has more than 79,000 pieces in its collection, ranging from 100 A.D. to the present.
Some collections include The Canadian Collection which highlights the nation’s art heritage, Masterpieces of European art with pieces from the great Vincent van Gogh and Pablo Picasso, just to name a few. The AGO also has an extensive collection of Contemporary art from the 1960’s to the present. It is also known for having the world’s largest public collection of work by internationally renowned British Sculptor, Henry Moore.
In 2004, the AGO began a massive redevelopment plan called, Transformation AGO. Designed by Toronto-born architect Frank Gehry, the new expansion of the Gallery would merge new and old. After much work and the support of several Donors, the AGO reopened in the Fall of 2008, increasing the Gallery’s art viewing space considerably.
Natural light is an integral part throughout the building, allowing outdoor light to enter the Gallery. Some highlights of the Gehry design include, a new entrance merging with the Gallery’s historic and original spots, an astounding glass and wood facade spanning 600 feet and 70 feet above street level, a sculpture gallery with exceptional city views, a sculptural staircase soaring from the second floor which links the Gallery’s Walker Court with the new centre for contemporary art, and a tinted titanium and glass four-storey wing housing contemporary art. This is just some of what the AGO has to offer.
The AGO’s restaurants and cafe’s offer great food and breathtaking views of the city. It also has shops with beautiful art and merchandise available for purchase. Whether you enjoy art or it’s your first time visiting an art museum, the AGO is a great way to see something new. The AGO also hosts several exhibitions and events throughout the year.
HelloToronto Tip: The AGO offers various guided tours of the Gallery that are free with admission. Be sure to check out the various tours available.
Posted by Rosanna Bonura
