In this vibrant and diverse city, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse in all of the creative exhibitions that are offered. We have compiled a list of Toronto’s offerings that will certainly spark the creativity in you!
Public Art:
Take a walk down any street in Toronto, and you will likely stumble upon some local artists’ work. Whether it is commissioned or just generally accepted by the community, artists add a special flair to neighbourhoods with their work. Have you ever driven on the Don Valley and noticed the strange teeth shaped sculptures near Don Mills? These abstract works of art are actually solar-powered devices that draw water up from the Don River and filter it through layers of recycled plastic and automobile fluff, removing pollutants. Though this may be something you witness in your daily commute, you can also access by foot through the Taylor Creek Trail. You can also experience fantastic murals on different stretches of Queen West at Graffiti Alley or on Dundas West where there are several pieces of South American and Indigenous influences as part of the Street Art Toronto Project.
Art Galleries:
Toronto is filled with amazing artists, and we have a variety of galleries that you could visit. With influences from each neighbourhood, the art you experience will be different across the city. Check out the Ryerson Image Centre, which exists for the research, teaching and exhibition of photography and related media. This downtown gallery is free to the public and is a constant partner with Toronto’s Nuit Blanche. The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery is widely regarded as one of the best contemporary art galleries in the city. The harbourfront gallery is not only home to several incredible art exhibits, but also offers several classes and events to allow their visitors to fully engage with Toronto’s arts community.
Museums:
Image from ROM Instagram
If you are familiar with Toronto, you have probably seen or heard of the landmark Royal Ontario Museum. As Canada’s largest museum, it spotlights some high profile exhibits including Chihuly, Pompeii, and Christian Dior. It is home to more than 12 million objects and specimens, 40 galleries and exhibitions spaces for your enjoyment. Consider attending one of their ROM Friday Night Live events, where you can explore the gallery alongside some live artists, music, food and drink. Dive into unique insights and new perspectives of Islamic civilizations and their cultural threads of their history. This educational institution is named after Aga Khan, the 49th hereditary Imam (Spiritual Leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. This museum is also across from the Ismaili Centre Toronto, which incorporates spaces for social and cultural gatherings, intellectual engagement and for spiritual reflection.
Theatres/Venues:
With so many historic theatres and venues in Toronto, the selection of places to see a show is endless. If you’re interested in the performing arts, consider visiting the Elgin Winter Garden Theatre Centre. This theatre is a historical site, which hosts three annual major productions including the Toronto International Film Festival. The unique double decker theatre is the last of its kind and encapsulates the vaudeville atmosphere that once existed. Interested in music? Visit another historical Toronto landmark, Massey Hall. This venue has featured so many great Canadian musicians for over 100 years. The venue is currently going through a massive seven-year revitalization process in order to preserve this landmark location. In June, the venue will be closing its doors for approximately two years, but will be back and better than ever in 2020!