Transformation AGO: Frequently Asked Questions

While we’re under construction, we’re committed to keeping connected to our public.

During the construction, approximately 80 per cent of the AGO’s gallery space is closed. However, we will continue to provide high quality specially ticketed exhibitions, such as the very successful Andy Warhol exhibition and the recent Ansel Adams/Alfred Eisenstaedt exhibition. We will continue to provide a glimpse of future collections and works of art from our permanent collection through such exhibitions as the Future Now. The AGO has leased the building at 60 McCaul Street as its temporary location for educational programming until the end of December 2008. Our goal is to ensure our public continues to be engaged through visual arts regardless of the construction schedule. New initiatives, such as the Adopt-a-School program, Neighbourhood Access, Collection X and Art Rental & Sales will all provide continued connections with our collections.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this exciting, and at times challenging, transition. We look forward to sharing the Transformation AGO experience with you as we progress through the project.

Why is there so little art on display?

We have had to close some galleries for construction, so there is less space available to display art. Although space is limited, we continue to provide exciting and meaningful art experiences through our specially ticketed exhibitions and selections of works of art from our permanent collections, as well as innovative and unexpected wallworks throughout the Gallery spaces.

You will see a wonderful new space with access to thousands of new and current works from our permanent collection by the end of construction in 2008, when we unveil what will be one of North America's largest art galleries. Meanwhile, we're making sure visitors have access to as much art as possible. Find out more about our Transformation.

Why don't you use every space you have for art works instead of using some space for displays about the new building or the Gallery School?

If we could use these spaces for our permanent collection, we would. However, these spaces are so close to the construction zone that we cannot control the temperature and overall environment at the level we are required to. In some cases, there might be too many vibrations from the construction and this would put the art at great risk. So, rather than let the walls go bare, we have displayed other things for our visitors to see and do in these spaces.

Where is Off the Wall and the other programming for children?

Some of our other family-based programs have been changed slightly because of the limited space during construction.

One impact of the construction is the temporary loss of the former Off the Wall. But we have created a special area for children featuring Dragon Wagon and Bugs and Dragons, an interactive activity cart and its fantastical environment created by Canadian artist Kim Adams. It is located on the main level in Leonard Gallery. We are also offering Family First Sundays, with studio and gallery activities on the first Sunday of every month, November through March, as well as our regular Saturday morning art classes.

Have you considered closing while construction is underway?

Our visitors have told us they still want access to art during construction. We surveyed our members before construction, and almost 85 per cent told us they would still want to visit the AGO during construction and were planning to keep their memberships throughout that time.

We will be closing to the public for a period of six to eight months starting in late 2007 to complete the final reinstallation of 5,000 works in 110 galleries, test our operational systems and train our staff for the highest standards of customer service. We will offer special programming and communications to our members during this period.

How long will the construction continue?

The expanded AGO is expected to open in 2008. We have a lot of great programming planned throughout, and as we get further into construction, we're learning from our visitors what works for them and what doesn't. We are listening.

When is the Gallery re-opening?

In 2008.

This was a good gallery to start with, why renovate?

It was good, but it's going to be great. More than 2,000 wonderful new works of art will be added to our collection, including a world renowned painting by Peter Paul Rubens called The Massacre of the Innocents. In the former AGO, we would not have had the space for these works, nor for any of the other artworks we expect to acquire before 2008.

In addition, the design of the new AGO will make it much easier to find your way around the Gallery, with all spaces branching off of the historic Walker Court. People have been losing their way in the Gallery for years!

We will also have wonderful new streetside spaces for our Gallery Shop, a cafe and a fine restaurant.

How can I find out what is on before I buy a ticket?

Our Website is the best place to find precise details on the exciting happenings at the AGO. In addition, there is an information booth at the entrance of the Gallery, where you can find brochures and general information. Of course, AGO staff and volunteers are always happy to assist you.

Why are you closed Mondays and Tuesdays?

We wanted to separate the major construction noise from our visitors as much as possible. It's not perfect, but we try to pack as much of the noise into those two days as possible, so you can enjoy a better visit.

We have also added evening hours on Thursdays and Fridays to compensate for this new schedule, and now more people are getting into the habit of visiting the Gallery after work.

Why are knapsacks, oversized bags and water bottles not permitted in the Gallery?

We want to make sure that the art is available for all to see, and we have a responsibility to protect it. Knapsacks, oversized bags and water bottles may be everyday items, but they can, inadvertently, cause damage in a room filled with priceless art works. All public galleries have rules about what should or should not be carried into a gallery space, and ours are in line with most. Of course, we make every effort to ensure that storing these items safely is as convenient as possible for you.

Where are all your books, prints and catalogues that used to be in the Gallery Shop?

One of the challenges of expansion is finding enough room to offer all the services and products we know our visitors have come to expect at the AGO. Moving the Gallery Shop to a space that is at best fifty per cent the size of the former store was as difficult for us as it is for you, because none of us likes seeing less of all the wonderful prints, books, jewellery, handicrafts and original art works that the Gallery Shop can offer.

However, we are working hard to expand our online Gallery Shop as an alternative to in-store shopping.

Can I still rent works of art from the Gallery?

Yes. The Art Rental and Sales Gallery offers a rental program exclusively for members of the AGO, with rental prices starting as low as $15 per month. A knowledgeable art consultant can help you select attractive works for any space. Call 416-977-4654 for more details.

Where can I get a cup of coffee or something to eat?

Since our regular Café AGO and Take a Break food service are closed through the duration of construction, AGO Members enjoy discounts with various local restaurant partners.

Where can I ask questions or get help?

Visitor Services representatives are on duty during all Gallery public hours and may assist you throughout your visit. Should you have any inquiries regarding memberships, please feel free to speak with staff at the Membership Desk, which is open during regular Gallery hours with the exception of Thursdays and Friday evenings after 7:30 pm. After that time, the Box Office may assist members and other visitors.

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