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- calendar_today November 9, 2026
AGO Plans Major Expansion Opening in Fall 2027
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) has announced that its new five-floor expansion, the Dani Reiss Modern and Contemporary Gallery, is scheduled to open on September 25, 2027. The expansion will add 40,000 square feet to the Toronto museum, making room for a growing collection of art and new exhibition opportunities.
Focus on Modern and Contemporary Works
The new gallery will display nearly 400 artworks from Indigenous, Canadian, and international artists. This addition is designed to broaden the scope of the AGO's offerings and provide expanded opportunities for the public to experience diverse artistic perspectives. The expansion reflects a commitment to showcasing a range of voices and creative expressions in modern and contemporary art.
Foundation and Funding
The expansion project was launched in 2022, following a significant $35-million donation from Dani Reiss, chairman and CEO of Canada Goose. With continued support from federal and provincial governments, as well as private donors, the AGO has secured full funding for ongoing operating costs related to the new space.
Architectural Design and Sustainability
The design of the expansion is being led by Diamond Schmitt, Selldorf Architects, and Two Row Architect. The addition will overlook Toronto’s Grange Park and connect seamlessly to the existing structure designed by Frank Gehry. The AGO states that the Dani Reiss Modern and Contemporary Gallery was conceived with sustainability in mind; it is designed to operate without burning fossil fuels and has received Zero Carbon Building Design certification. This makes it the first Canadian cultural institution of its size to earn such a designation.
AGO’s Continued Growth
This project marks the AGO's seventh expansion since its founding in 1900. According to the museum, the forthcoming addition will help accommodate both its burgeoning art collection and its mandate to offer engaging cultural experiences for visitors. The blend of sustainable design, modern facilities, and enhanced exhibition capacity underlines the AGO's ongoing evolution as a leading institution.
Looking Ahead
As the September 2027 opening approaches, the AGO prepares to introduce visitors to an expanded space dedicated to modern and contemporary art. The Dani Reiss Modern and Contemporary Gallery is set to strengthen the museum’s profile and affirm its role as a key representative of Canada’s cultural landscape.
Source: toronto.citynews.ca.
