Transformation AGO: Timeline
The Transformation AGO project, to be completed in 2008, builds on the generous gift of the late Ken Thomson’s private art collection, the commitment of other donors, the vital support of the provincial and federal governments and an innovative architectural expansion by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry.
May 1, 2000
Matthew Teitelbaum, Director and CEO of the Art Gallery of Ontario, Ken Thomson and Frank Gehry meet for the first time to discuss the concept of Transformation AGO.
March 19, 2002
Province of Ontario announces its support of $24 million for Transformation AGO.
May 31, 2002
Government of Canada announces its support of $24 million for Transformation AGO.
November 19, 2002
AGO officially launches the Transformation AGO project with the announcement of Ken Thomson’s gift of his private art collection and a cash donation of $70 million. Frank Gehry is announced as the architect for the project.
January 22, 2003
AGO hosts the first Transformation AGO Open House for the public. More than 2,400 people attend.
December 17, 2003
AGO announces unveiling of the Transformation AGO schematic design and launches the Transformation AGO wordmark.
January 28, 2004
Frank Gehry unveils his schematic design for Transformation AGO.
May – August 2004
AGO engages in a community consultation process through a Transformation AGO Working Group consisting of local neighbours, to help refine design development.
October 27, 2004
City Council approves the project, without debate.
June 1, 2005
Construction begins. AGO main entrance moves from Dundas Street to McCaul Street for the duration of the construction period.
June 7, 2005
AGO officially launches the Transformation AGO Campaign. $180 million in donations is announced, bringing the campaign to 70 per cent of its $254 million goal.
February 23, 2006
AGO President Charles Baillie and wife Marilyn increase donation to $5 million. New hosting centre will be named Baillie Court.
March 23, 2006
Provincial government announces an additional $15 million in funding for Transformation AGO. Brings total funds raised to $198 million.
May 8, 2006
Richard and Elizabeth Currie make a $2-million gift to Transformation AGO to endow the position of director of Education and Public Programming.
June 6, 2006
A $4-million bequest from the estate of David Y. Hodgson creates the David Yuile and Mary Elizabeth Hodgson Fund for the acquisition of contemporary art.
AGO surpasses its endowment goal of $35 million by $2.3 million.
AGO reaches 83 per cent of its fundraising goal; total funds raised $211.4 million.
June 12, 2006
AGO benefactor and catalyst for Transformation AGO Ken Thomson passes away at the age of 83.
April 4, 2007
AGO announces significant gift of $10 million from prominent members of the Italian community, bringing total funds raised to $225 million. In recognition of this contribution, the AGO names its sculpture promenade Galleria Italia.
June 26, 2008
Five months before public opening, the AGO reaches its campaign goal of $254 million. Gallery announces additional fundraising goal of $22 million for new project attributes, raising campaign total to $276 million.
Page updated August 18 2008
