From the AGO and the Gardiner to the Daniel Faria and the Katzman Contemporary, TO is blessed with a diverse selection of galleries. However, there are plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with art around the city, without having to keep too quiet.
Toronto has a pretty stacked calendar for art enthusiasts who are looking to soak up some culture and view work by local and international artists.
Here are some of the best art walks around town, and a couple of walking tours that take in some of the art on offer in Toronto.
Festivals
Liberty Village Art Crawl
For the sixth year in a row, the Toronto Art Crawl brings art, fashion, photography, and more to the public. The free event at 71 East Liberty Street has over 60 vendors as well as live DJs and food trucks on site.
When: June 9
Time: 11 am to 6 pm
Where: Liberty Village Park
Cost: Free admission
Riverside Art Walk
Now in its 20th year, this Queen East Arts fest is the first of the season, connecting 165 artists (with work ranging from paintings to glasswork) with customers looking for a one-off piece of art. The free two-day event at Jimmy Simpson Park and Community Centre also features community groups and food vendors.
When: June 2-3
Time: 11 am to 6 pm
Where: Jimmie Simpson Park
Cost: Free admission
Waterfront Artisan Market
Local artisans, crafters, chefs and bakers will join together at the HTO Park on the Queens Quay on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer and into the fall.
When: May 19 to October 7
Time: Saturdays 11 am to 8 pm, Sundays 11 am to 5 pm
Where: HTO Park on the Queens Quay
Cost: Free admission
Artsfest
This 3-day arts and craft festival takes place in the historic Distillery District and sees photography, painting sculpture and more showcased over the course of the long Victoria Day weekend.
When: May 19 to 21
Time: 11 am to 6 pm
Where: Historic Distillery District
Cost: Free admission
Roncy Rocks Music and Art Fest
Local artists, makers and creators will take part in a juried art show and sale at this one-day event that sees creativity showcases along Roncesvalles Avenue. Plus, there will be live music, kids’ activities, a dog show, and a sidewalk sale.
When: June 9
Time: 10 am to 7 pm
Where: All along Roncesvalles Ave
Cost: Free admission
Walking tours
Graffiti Tour by The Tour Guys
This free 90-minute tour gives an “introduction to graffiti culture and one of the most vibrant areas for graffiti in Toronto” in the back alleys and laneways of downtown Toronto.
When: Daily starting in May, Weekends only in April and September
Time: 3:30 pm
Where: Meets at Black Bull Tavern
Admission: Free admission, pay by donation
Toronto Village of Murals (Islington)
Along Dundas, between Kipling and Islington, lie 25 fine art murals for you to peruse. An audio guide is available online for you to listen while enjoying the art.
When: Anytime
Where: Various locations