Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s bustling art scene, OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery in Grange Park stands as a beacon of creative exploration and cultural dialogue. As the flagship professional gallery of OCAD University, this 8,000-square-foot exhibition space at 199 Richmond St. W. is more than just an art gallery; it is an experimental platform that pushes the boundaries of art, design, and digital media. Known for hosting thought-provoking exhibitions that showcase both Canadian and international talent, the Onsite Art Gallery in Grange Park has become a must-visit for art enthusiasts seeking inspiration. Whether you’re a local or visiting and searching for standout art galleries near Grange Park, Onsite Gallery’s commitment to showcasing contemporary and Indigenous works makes it an essential destination. Read on to discover what makes OCADU Art Gallery a cornerstone of innovation in art galleries in Toronto.
Mission and Vision
OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery in Grange Park is dedicated to advancing contemporary, Indigenous, and public art and design. The gallery’s mission is to serve as a dynamic platform that not only showcases thought-provoking exhibitions but also fosters dialogue on critical local and global issues. By integrating art, design, and digital media, OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery encourages meaningful conversations that resonate beyond its walls and engage the wider community.
This commitment extends to creating exhibitions and programs that highlight diverse voices and perspectives, reinforcing the gallery’s role as a leader among art galleries in Toronto. With its focus on promoting knowledge, stimulating discourse, and connecting audiences to pressing cultural and social matters, OCADU Art Gallery exemplifies a vision rooted in inclusivity and innovation.
Historical Background
OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery in Grange Park opened its doors in a new, expanded space on September 16, 2017. This marked a significant development in the university’s efforts to establish a premier art and design hub within Toronto’s vibrant cultural scene. The gallery spans 8,000 square feet and is an integral part of OCAD University’s Creative City Campus, underscoring its commitment to fostering a collaborative environment that integrates art, design, and digital media.
A key figure in the gallery’s growth and success is Francisco Alvarez, the Executive & Artistic Director, whose leadership has driven the gallery’s mission to new heights. Under his stewardship, the Onsite Art Gallery in Grange Park has become an influential space for contemporary and Indigenous art exhibitions, reinforcing its standing as one of the top art galleries in Toronto. This evolution has cemented the gallery’s role in promoting diverse artistic expression and community engagement, further enhancing OCAD University’s profile.
Key Offerings and Unique Features
OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery in Grange Park offers a rich variety of exhibitions that encompass contemporary, Indigenous, public art, design, and digital media. This diverse range of displays sets the gallery apart from other art galleries in Toronto, making it a prime destination for those seeking innovative and impactful art experiences.
One of the unique features of the Onsite Art Gallery in Grange Park is its commitment to public art, showcased through significant contributions such as Jordan Bennett’s mural titled pi’tawita’iek: we go up river. This impressive digital-print vinyl mural exemplifies the gallery’s dedication to integrating public art within and outside its walls.
The gallery also hosts an International Curators’ Residency program, which attracts global talent and provides opportunities for collaborative learning and curatorial innovation. Additionally, OCADU Art Gallery boasts a permanent collection that includes various influential artworks, extending its cultural impact beyond the gallery’s interior to the surrounding campus and community.
Facilities and Visitor Experience
OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery in Grange Park is an 8,000-square-foot, Category A designed exhibition space, purpose-built to host impactful and visually engaging art exhibitions. The gallery layout features a welcoming entrance on the ground floor, ensuring easy accessibility for all visitors. Inside, guests are greeted by a reception desk staffed with knowledgeable personnel ready to assist with any inquiries about the gallery and current exhibitions.
Facilities include two accessible, all-gender washrooms equipped with emergency call buttons, ensuring comfort and safety for all guests. The pathways are designed to be wide and unobstructed, accommodating visitors with varying needs, and seating is available throughout the gallery for a comfortable experience.
To maintain safety, especially in light of public health considerations, OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery has implemented essential COVID-19 protocols, including frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces, availability of masks and hand sanitizer, and a protective barrier at the reception desk. These measures ensure that the gallery remains a safe and welcoming destination among art galleries in Toronto.
Noteworthy Artworks and Public Art Installations
OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery in Grange Park is known for its compelling collection of public art installations that contribute to the cultural vibrancy of the campus. Among the most notable pieces is Gord Peteran’s Inbox (2009), a mixed media work located on the 2nd floor of 100 McCaul Street, beside The Great Hall. This installation is a testament to the gallery’s commitment to showcasing thought-provoking and unique art.
Another significant piece is Michael Belmore’s Water is Blood (2021), made of copper and steel. This artwork is also located on the 2nd floor of 100 McCaul Street, adjacent to The Great Hall, and is part of OCAD University’s Permanent Collection of Art and Design.
Visitors to OCADU Art Gallery can also appreciate public art installations like Jordan Bennett’s mural pi’tawita’iek: we go up river (2022), displayed on the south façade of 100 McCaul Street near Butterfield Park, and Lynn Chadwick’s Trigon III (1963-64), situated in the lobby of 230 Richmond St. W.. These installations enrich the experience of those exploring art galleries in Toronto, emphasizing the gallery’s dedication to promoting diverse and impactful public art.
Past Exhibitions
OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery in Grange Park has a history of hosting a variety of impactful exhibitions that resonate with diverse audiences. Notable past exhibitions include Jean Marshall: Anikoobijikewin, which highlighted Indigenous artistry through powerful, culturally significant works, and Doktor Karayom: No One’s At Home, an exhibition that explored themes of isolation and introspection. These exhibitions, along with others, have positioned Onsite Art Gallery in Grange Park as a leader among art galleries in Toronto for presenting thought-provoking and culturally relevant art.
Public Engagement and Community Involvement
OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery in Grange Park prioritizes public engagement and active community involvement to create meaningful experiences. The gallery offers an array of public programs, educational outreach, and workshops designed to connect visitors with contemporary art, design, and digital media. These initiatives are geared toward deepening public understanding and sparking conversations on critical issues, positioning the gallery as a notable leader among art galleries in Toronto.
Visitors to the Onsite Art Gallery in Grange Park have the opportunity to participate in guided tours led by knowledgeable student staff who provide insights into the exhibitions, artists, and featured works. This interactive approach allows guests to ask questions and learn directly from those immersed in the gallery’s dynamic environment.
The gallery’s commitment to fostering a global art dialogue is evident in its involvement with both local and international artists and curators, ensuring a rich exchange of ideas and cultural perspectives. This engagement helps elevate the reputation of OCADU Art Gallery and solidifies its role in connecting the community with impactful art.
Support and Funding
OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery in Grange Park is supported by a strong network of sponsors and contributors who help sustain its impactful programming and innovative exhibitions. One of the primary supporters is the Government of Canada’s Canada Cultural Spaces Fund, which has played a significant role in funding the gallery’s development and ongoing initiatives.
Additional contributions have come from the City of Toronto, through a Section 37 agreement, and Aspen Ridge Homes, both of which have supported the gallery’s construction and growth. The gallery’s educational programs are backed by Nexus Investment Management, allowing OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery to offer enriching public programs and workshops that enhance the visitor experience.
These contributions reinforce the gallery’s ability to remain a prominent fixture among art galleries in Toronto, ensuring it continues to foster community engagement and showcase diverse, world-class exhibitions.
Location and Accessibility
OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery in Grange Park is conveniently located at 199 Richmond St. W., Toronto, Ontario, making it an accessible and central destination for art enthusiasts and visitors. Situated near the iconic Grange Park and close to Osgoode Station, this gallery is easy to reach whether you’re commuting or driving.
The gallery is designed with accessibility in mind. Visitors will find a level entrance, automatic doors, and two all-gender, wheelchair-accessible washrooms equipped with emergency call buttons. The interior pathways are wide and unobstructed, ensuring comfort for all guests, with seating available throughout.
Public transit options include the 501 Queen and 504 King streetcars, with the closest stop at John St. From there, a short walk south to Richmond St. leads you to the gallery. For drivers, nearby paid parking facilities include Pro Park at 10 Nelson St. and World Auto Parking Services at 260 Richmond St. W.
Staff
OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery in Grange Park is led by a team of dedicated professionals who ensure the gallery’s operations, exhibitions, and public programs run smoothly. Francisco Alvarez serves as the Executive & Artistic Director, guiding the gallery’s vision and initiatives. Lisa Deanne Smith, the Curator at Onsite Gallery, plays an essential role in shaping the gallery’s exhibition content and curatorial direction. Ryan Rice, the Curator of Indigenous Art, contributes invaluable expertise that enriches the gallery’s offerings and supports its commitment to diverse representation.
Visitor Information
OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery in Grange Park is led by a team of dedicated professionals who ensure the gallery’s operations, exhibitions, and public programs run smoothly. Francisco Alvarez serves as the Executive & Artistic Director, guiding the gallery’s vision and initiatives. Lisa Deanne Smith, the Curator at Onsite Gallery, plays an essential role in shaping the gallery’s exhibition content and curatorial direction. Ryan Rice, the Curator of Indigenous Art, contributes invaluable expertise that enriches the gallery’s offerings and supports its commitment to diverse representation.
For general inquiries or to book a guided tour, visitors can reach out to the gallery through the following contact information:
- Address: 199 Richmond Street West, Ground Floor, Toronto, ON M5V 0H4, Canada
- Email: [email protected]
- Contact: 416-977-6000 ext. 265
- Website
Socials
These key figures and staff members are integral to making OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery one of the most engaging and inclusive art galleries in Toronto.
How to Get There
Getting to OCAD University’s Onsite Gallery in Grange Park is simple, whether you’re using public transit or driving.
Public Transit
- Subway: The closest subway station is Osgoode Station, located on the TTC Line 1 (Yonge-University). From there, it’s a short walk west along Richmond St. W.
- Streetcar: Take the 501 Queen streetcar and get off at John St. Walk south on John St. and head east on Richmond St. W. to reach the gallery. Alternatively, the 504 King streetcar also stops at John St., and you can walk north to Richmond St. W.
Driving
- Richmond St. W. runs one-way westbound, so drivers should approach from the east.
- Nearby parking options include:
- Pro Park at 10 Nelson St.
- World Auto Parking Services at 260 Richmond St. W.
- Pro Park at 4 Nelson St. These facilities offer convenient paid parking within a short walking distance of the gallery.
These accessible routes make OCADU Art Gallery a top choice for those seeking art galleries in Toronto.
FAQs
- What are the main types of exhibitions at Onsite Gallery?
The gallery features exhibitions in contemporary, Indigenous, public art, design, and digital media. - What notable public art can be found at OCAD University?
Notable public art includes Gord Peteran’s Inbox and Michael Belmore’s Water is Blood. - Are there guided tours available at Onsite Gallery?
Yes, guided tours can be booked in advance through the Programs & Community Coordinator. - Which public transit options are best for reaching Onsite Gallery?
The closest subway station is Osgoode Station, and streetcars 501 Queen and 504 King stop nearby at John St.