Overview

The Ottawa Art Gallery is a municipal, not-for-profit, charitable art institution located in Ottawa, Ontario. It opened in 1988 and expanded in 2018 with a new 55,000 square foot building. It acts as a cultural hub linking art with the city, emphasizing the art and artists of the Ottawa-Gatineau region. Admission is always free.

Collections & Programming

OAG houses over a thousand works in its Permanent Collection, along with the Firestone Collection of Canadian Art, generously donated to the city in the early 1990s. The Permanent Collection continues to grow annually through acquisitions and donations, offering a mix of regional historical and contemporary artworks.

OAG supports diverse programming: public, educational, wellness, research, and community activities. Notable programs include ArtWise, Creative Sundays, Toddler Mornings, and Art Tent, fostering deep community engagement.

Visitor Experience & Facilities

Housed in a LEED Silver-certified facility, OAG provides free access to exhibitions, events, talks, and education resources. Situated in the Arts Court, it features adaptable spaces, café, and accessible design. It emphasizes inclusive, reflective experiences rooted in respectful dialogue.

Arts Corridor & Digital Engagement

Through its Arts Corridor initiative, OAG offers a self-guided digital walking tour of downtown Ottawa’s art and cultural landmarks. Visitors can access it via the Ottawa Art Gallery mobile app, available for both Apple and Android. The app also provides curated art tours such as city bike or walking experiences.

Significance & Impact

OAG plays a vital role in promoting visual arts in Ottawa by preserving regional heritage, nurturing contemporary practice, and creating a welcoming public forum. Its free-access model, community-driven programming, and digital ventures underscore its commitment to civic inclusion and cultural vitality.