Toronto’s Hidden Art World

Major metropolitan cities can be expensive, I have been to a few, and my wallet suffers from it every time. Here in Toronto’s hidden art world, I created a listing of 8 museums and galleries that you can visit for free and not feel that money for food is a luxury. Although some of the significantly backed and partially funded museums and galleries do have free nights and or afternoons, these only occur when there is a full moon on a Wednesday when the hounds of hells are baying in a uniform while they lick ice cream. Although helpful, it is not very practical for many people visiting the city of Toronto.

For those that enjoy the cultural and artist’s mystique of the art world, Toronto’s hidden art world allows access to these locations in the city, and they are entirely free. Yes, you heard correctly, free. In essence, you could spend an entire day roaming the streets of Downtown Toronto and enjoy great works of art and still have enough money on your credit card to have a gourmet meal. Toronto, although not included here, has some of the best restaurants in the country, headlined by some outstanding chefs. Or, if the moon is right, you can end your day at the Royal Ontario Museum (R.O.M.) or the Art Gallery of Ontario (A.G.O). Honestly, these are two spectacular places to visit if you have the time and budget.

Don’t Peek Yet

The locations I have compiled are extensive, and some will allow you to purchase some very unique pieces that you can take home with you to adorn your already sophisticated abode. Not to outdone, there are also a couple of places that, although have an admission fee, will by no means make your nose bleed from sticker shock. For sentimental value and for those that have young children, please read to the end for an “extra special” location that when I can, I never miss the opportunity to visit.

The Art Museum of the U of T (University of Toronto)

The University of Toronto centrally located in Midtown Toronto. The Art Museum consists of the Justina M. Barnicke Gallery (Hart House) and the University of Toronto Art Centre (University College). Both of these galleries are within very close proximity to each other. The two galleries were united in 2014 when they began to operate under a new mandate set forth by the university. The Art Museum at the University of Toronto is one of the largest gallery spaces for visual art exhibitions and programming in Toronto.

Each of these galleries has a long, storied history that will continue to harbour some essential pieces of art. The Art Museum organizes and presents an intensive year-round program of exhibitions and events that are certain to invoke a curiosity that will foster a better understanding of the Museum’s timeless treasures. For more information and exhibit schedule, please follow the included link.

The Canadian language Museum

Located at Glendon College of York University is the much-heralded Canadian language Museum. However, north of the downtown core, those that have a curiosity about the vast languages spoken in Canada will cherish this opportunity.

The Museum was established in 2011 to promote the diversity of the spoken word throughout the nation. Included are many indigenous languages and dialects are spoken across the country and variations of the two official languages. 

As the ethnic and cultural diversity of the country expands, it is essential to understand and comprehend what role language plays to allow us to create and imagine this land as the country continues to grow. For those that feel the diversity within the linguistic doctrine is paramount to understanding the country, then The Canadian Language Museum should be part of your itinerary-not be missed. Another treasure in Toronto’s hidden art world.

Gallery Arcturus

Located north of Ryerson University at 80 Gerrard St. Gallery Arcturus is an essential gallery. As you walk up the stone stairs to the entrance, you feel that you are about to experience something unparalleled. 

Consisting of five galleries that span many floors, the exhibits seem to be is a constant state of flux. Each is moving from one variation to another — a true wonder of exploration into contemporary art. Many of the galleries are created to enhance the exhibited works and are managed deftly with high precision. All while maintaining a permanent collection by some of the preeminent North American artists.

Gallery Arcturus welcomes you and forces you to explore a new chapter in your appreciation and education into contemporary art. 

Harbour Front

Located on the majestic Toronto waterfront at Queens Quay, you will find the Harbourfront Center. Consisting of twelve indoor and Twelve outdoor venues, Harbourfront is one of the premier locations in Toronto for cultural and artistic endeavours.

Venues include The Harbourfront Centre Theatre, The Power Plant and the Craft and Design Studio. The list is enormous, and this is only to name a few. Some of the events are by paid attendance, but the vast majority are free. 

Because of its idyllic location on the waterfront, it is alive with many markets and restaurants as well. Perfect for strolling and people watching. You will find it to be as exciting and reflective as any Picasso. Although not hidden, this location is still a vital ingredient in Toronto’s hidden Art world.

Harbourfront at Queens Quay has something to offer everyone, no matter their age. As their programming is vast, please consult their website to find the event(s) that suits you the best.

Myseum Of Toronto

When is a Museum not a Museum? That is when it is Myseum or (Your)seum too. Confused, so was I at first. Myseum’s focus on the history of Toronto. Many of the stories and presentations are unique to the city, both past and present. Some of which have been lost and now being unearthed and discussed and presented in a new format.

Myseum is not a “bricks and Mortar” edifice. It is located all around us as they do presentations in many venues throughout the city and online. As the name implies, the Myseum is about us all. Anyone that has had a hand in implementing the Toronto that we know today has contributed. 

For those that want to experience Toronto from a new perspective, Myseum may be the answer.

Please consult their website for current opportunities to visit the mobile historical heart of Toronto.

Ryerson Image Center

For those of us that find the power of the image as compelling as any story ever told, the Ryerson Image Centre (R.I.C.) is an ideal place to explore.

On the campus of Ryerson University, at 33 Gould St. Nestled in the middle of downtown Toronto, right beside the outdoor skating rink. A must stop for those that find the fine art of photography an art form like no other.

The centre comprises 4500 square feet of exhibition space: three galleries, The Student, The University and the Main gallery. With temperature and moisture controlled environments designed to retain the integrity of the works. There is plenty of material to keep you interested for hours. The mezzanine consists of a 16-foot new media wall. Please follow the link for more information and upcoming exhibits.

Taglialatella Gallery

Since bringing its presence into Toronto in 2018, Taglialatella has been synonymous with Modern and contemporary art for more than forty years. With galleries in Newyork, Miami and Paris. It is retaining a focus on introducing and promoting both young and emerging artists and, at the same time, embracing an inspiring collection of contemporary masters, such as Jean Michel-Basquiat and Keith Haring. A recognized source of unique and highly sought after works.

It is located in midtown Toronto, at 99 Yorkville ave, in the renowned Yorkville district. Here they will stimulate and introduce you to a better understanding of the contemporary art world. Perhaps you will even find the new piece to adorn your home or office.

For the most recent gallery updates, please contact the gallery.

OCAD University (Ontario College of Art and Design)

Near the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), at Dundas St and McCaul ave. OCAD offers many artistic and design opportunities for both the creator and the benefactor. Here you will find exhibits in a vast number of venues throughout the year. Not to be defined by one discipline, OCAD offers a considerable array of showcased works.

Here you will have the chance to see and visit the artists and designers that will be certain to lead the next essential movements in many artistic genres.

As the exhibitions and viewing often correspond with the academic year, I would suggest that you contact the OCAD website for information on time and dates. 

Museum Of Contemporary art

This Museum may not be free, but they do offer some very inexpensive opportunities to view some of their excellent exhibitions. Located in the west end near the Junction “triangle” of the city in a once very industrial neighbourhood is the home of the Museum of Contemporary art. Located at 158 Sterling Rd. and operating on floors 1 through 5 of the Tower Automotive building- built in 1919 and was once the tallest building in Toronto.

Newly created in 2018, MOCA moved into its new 55 000 square foot location, with the understanding that art can transform both local and personal thinking. It is creating insight into the diversity of Toronto’s ethnic landscape and the local and international arts panorama. Here you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself into some of the most innovations and experiential exhibits that are both thought-provoking and unique. With new exhibitions opening regularly, the MOCA is a location that you will want to revisit. 

MZTV History of T.V.

The Moses Znaimer Museum of Television archives. 

Although this is not a free museum and it does have minimal working hours, I felt that this might find favour with those that have an infinity with television. Thanks to its vast collection of artifacts, this may be a “don’t touch that dial” moment. Below is a brief introduction from the Museum: 

The MZTV Museum and Archive

“The Museum’s mandate is to exhibit the world’s most comprehensive collection of North American Television Receivers for the formative fifty-year period from the 1920s to the 1970s. The MZTV Museum also aims to tell the story of the medium and to contribute to the understanding of the impact of television on the people who watch it.” A hidden gem in Toronto’s hidden art world.”

 Liberty Village is the home of MZTV, in the King and Dufferin area, north of the C.N.E. ( Canadian National Exhibition) grounds. Please contact them for exact times and variance in the schedule.

Riverdale Farm

When I get the opportunity, I will venture into historic Cabbage-town and visit the Riverdale farm. Many years ago, it was once the Riverdale zoo. Thankfully they rethought that and created a lovely picturesque working farm in the middle of the city. Here you will find livestock and botanical items that are certain to thrill both young and old. 

No Cottage, no farm. For those of that call concrete a park, this is an opportunity to wander through this magnificent location. The fee is free, although donations are accepted. Bring a lunch and enjoy the sights and sounds of a working Urban farm. A treat for all, and please do not feed the animals.

As you can see, a large city has many opportunities to bathe yourself into its cultural and artistic artifacts-without, having to tell your landlord that you will be late with the rent again. In the city, there are many opportunities to visit some magnificent locations. Become amazed, stimulated and educated by what you are experiencing.

To stroll or not to Stroll

I like to walk, and many of these locations are within walking distance of each other. If you find the durations are farther than you would like, the T.T.C. is always handy. I have personally been to many of these locations, and each time, I am more inspired than the last. So please lace up the sneakers, pack a few snacks and explore the hidden Art world of Toronto.

I am curious, has anyone else been to these galleries and museums, and if so, how was your experience? Art and the impact of such displays affects each of us on many separate levels. I would enjoy hearing how you felt as you become the embodiment of your personal tour.

As always, it is my privilege to bring this to you.

Your Vacation, Your Escape.

VTE