The AGH strives to create a space where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity and enact a welcoming and safer space for all. The Gallery endeavours to maintain a willingness to engage in conversation by delivering exhibitions and programs geared to encourage access, promote education, and foreground the diverse representation of art and artists from the region. We would like to acknowledge our own limitations and acknowledge the status of our community as those who can decide whether we genuinely offer a safer space.
With the recent tragic discoveries of unmarked graves of Indigenous children and their families, the Art Gallery of Hamilton deplores the loss of life and mourns alongside Indigenous communities. These discoveries are further evidence of the genocide perpetrated against Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Substantial work must be done in museums, art galleries, and systems, to face the historical and current realities that continue to harm Indigenous Peoples.
It is important to acknowledge that words and symbolic gestures are not enough, we must move beyond words and truly commit ourselves to learning and understanding the critical importance of truth, reconciliation, and reparation. There cannot be reconciliation without truth. In line with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action, the AGH will continue its commitment to the TRC’s recommendations for museums, libraries, archives and dismantling anti-Indigenous racism and discriminatory practices and policies against Indigenous Peoples.
For more information and resources, please visit the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.
Founded in 1914, the Art Gallery of Hamilton is the oldest and largest art museum in the region with a permanent collection that is recognized as one of the finest in Canada. Embracing Canadian historical, international, and contemporary art, the collection consists of more than 10,000 works. You can see superb pieces by Alex Colville, Tom Thomson, the Group of Seven, Emily Carr, James Tissot, Jean-Léon Gérôme, Gustave Doré, Norval Morrisseau, Keith Haring, Edward Burtynsky, and Kim Adams, to name a few. Whether you’re looking for a specific artist or spending time in one of our galleries, you’re sure to find works that inspire, intrigue, challenge, and engage you.
The AGH is renowned for presenting outstanding exhibitions and complementary programming for visitors of all ages. There is so much to see and experience. In addition to AGH Tours and AGH Talks, the Gallery offers studios for adults and kids, family activities, school programs, festival programming, performances, and more.
Please take a few minutes to explore the AGH website and discover the many and varied works of art, public programs, and educational activities that make the Gallery such an important learning hub.
I hope you will also read about the many ways to become involved with the AGH as Members and volunteers, and that you will find it helpful in coordinating your visits to the AGH and the surrounding vibrant downtown Hamilton arts and culture scene.
Welcome, and enjoy!
Shelley Falconer,
President and CEO
