Toronto art gallery and venue form strategic partnership

The Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) is bringing a Canadian art collection to visitors through a partnership with the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). As part of a number of enhancements to the Centre, the MTCC has decorated its walls with seven initial pieces of artwork by contemporary Canadian artists.

"Toronto has a thriving arts culture. Visitors to the city can access such gems as our new AGO and Royal Ontario Museum, and events like Nuit Blanche and Luminato," explained Barry Smith, president and chief executive of the MTCC.

"Now, we are excited to bring the work of Canadian artists directly into the MTCC for the enjoyment of visitors and Torontonians alike."

The partnership is made possible through the AGO's Art Rental and Sales Programme, which makes artwork available for sale to the public and for rent by members of the AGO. The Gallery's Rental and Sale collection includes paintings, drawings, photographs, original prints and sculpture. The programme also includes a consultation service to pair the right pieces in each space.

"Our programme allows the public to access and really connect to original works of art, and all proceeds from the rental help support educational programmes and acquisitions at the AGO," said Kirstin Mearns, general manager tetail at the AGO. "By partnering with the MTCC we can extend this unique experience and its benefits to an even larger community."