Art Gallery Of Ontario

Lonely Planet review

The AGO's art collections are excellent and extensive - unless you have a lot of stamina, you'll need more than one trip to take it all in. This dilemma may be solved by the gallery's ongoing renovations, overseen by famed architect Frank Gehry, which continue to require the temporary closure of various wings and exhibits.

When work finishes in summer 2008, the AGO's exhibited collection will grow from 33,000 to 43,000 pieces - a hefty expansion incorporating Australian Aboriginal art and a huge photographic collection. Existing highlights include rare Québécois religious statuary, First Nations and Inuit carvings, major Canadian works by Emily Carr and the Group of Seven, the Henry Moore sculpture pavilion, and a restored Georgian house called The Grange. Prices will almost certainly rise once renovations are complete. Check the website for updates. While you're in the 'hood, note that Cinematheque Ontario screens movies at the AGO's Jackman Hall, which may escape renovation closures.