Discover The Art And Culture Of The Art Gallery Of Ontario
A mainstay of the Toronto cultural and arts scene since it was founded in 1900, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) has gone through several transformations to get it to the amazing, mixed architectural, focus that defines it today. With large collections of old masters and Canadian art, including the famed Group of Seven, the gallery is home to the world’s largest collection of Henry Moore sculptures.
Over its many years of growth and additions of new wings and galleries, the AGO has been used as a place for weddings, concerts (most notably string quartets), receptions and a host of other events. It stages special visiting collections as well as touring shows that are more museum-like, but draw massive crowds; tickets are often sold out for such special attractions.
The most recent addition to the AGO is an ultramodern space with an oval-shaped, curved staircase (it has to be seen to be explained) and soaring glass ceilings; it was designed by famous architect, Frank Gehry (a native of Canada).
The AGO cannot be done in a day. The areas covered at the AGO include: contemporary art, European art, Canadian art, African art, and prints, drawings and photographs. It’s best to pick one major wing or gallery and give yourself time to truly absorb what you are seeing. Guided tours and art-specific tours are available. A café provides light snacks and a high-end, award-winning restaurant is a sought-after dinner spot. The AGO is a must-see for travelers visiting the Toronto Beaches.