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With the public opening of a transformed Art Gallery of Ontario today, Torontonians have a chance to experience a quintessentially Canadian work of architecture. Where other projects deliver shock and awe – Daniel Libeskind's jagged addition to the Royal Ontario Museum, for example – architect Frank Gehry's $276 million work provides balance, clarity and a remarkable sense of community. Toronto, and the entire country, are richer for it.
One of the most sought-after architects in the world, Gehry actually grew up near the AGO. As a child he literally played in its shadow and, by his own admission, it shaped his attitude toward art. Although he has done more celebrated projects – notably the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain – none features this personal connection.
As a result, there is a much respect for the old art gallery in this renovation. And much that is new, including serpentine staircases walled with glass and an exterior wall clad in shimmering blue titanium reflecting the sky.
Natural light and wood form the essence of Gehry's vision, to the benefit of the treasures stored within. Highlighting the best of the gallery's collection of 73,000 works of art is, after all, the point of this structure. And it does that job exceedingly well.
Rooms dedicated to Canadian painting, in particular, glow with subdued natural light. The power of Canadian art is enhanced when set in this compelling showcase, and that could inspire new artists, much as Gehry, himself, was influenced here so many decades ago.
The late Ken Thomson and his family donated $100 million to make this project happen, while the federal and provincial governments together gave $63 million. It appears to have been money well spent.
