AGW 75 Years
The AGW began in 1943 in Willistead Manor, where exhibitions borrowed from other galleries and organizations could be displayed. Incorporated in 1944, the Gallery soon began building its own collection and presenting exhibitions and education programs. The AGW moved into a renovated brewery warehouse on the riverfront in 1975, gradually earning its status as one of Ontario's most significant galleries. The Gallery temporarily relocated to the Devonshire Mall in 1993 when its Board of Directors made the decision to rent its riverfront location to the Province of Ontario. Bringing the Gallery into the mall moved art a little closer to the world that inspired it. In shopper's paradise, the Gallery offered one of those few things in life you did not need to purchase in order to possess. In 2001, the AGW returned to its former downtown waterfront site by way of a new building -- a state-of-the-art facility by which the AGW has reasserted its presence in downtown Windsor.
The Art Gallery of Windsor collects, conserves, interprets and presents Canadian art. It is a place to view significant works of art by local, regional and national artists; a place to see what Canadians have been making and thinking about for longer than Canada has been a country. The AGW is a valuable cultural resource for the Windsor area, providing the special service of showcasing Canadian art in a city that has the busiest border crossing between Canada and the United States.
Why does the AGW collect art?
Public art collections are an important part of any democratic society that values cultural heritage and freedom of expression. The AGW acquires, conserves, researches and exhibits its collection, which is held in trust for society. It makes fine art accessible to all for education, inspiration and enjoyment, and is part of an international museum community, lending its works to other galleries.
How big is the collection?
The AGW has approximately 4,000 paintings, sculptures and works on paper. New artworks are added to the collection every year.
How does art become part of the collection?
Most works of art are generously donated by artists and collectors. Occasionally art is purchased with funds donated specifically for this purpose. Based on their areas of expertise, AGW staff recommends additions to the collection to a volunteer acquisitions committee who ultimately decide what enters the collection. Committee members are constantly changing, so over time many people are involved in deciding what enters the collection.
How and where is the art stored?
The collection is stored in special vaults at the AGW. These vaults meet international museum standards to control light, humidity, temperature and access. The AGW provides the best environment possible for the preservation of rare and fragile works of art.
What is the oldest object in the AGW collection? The largest?
The AGW owns an English tapestry that is over 300 years old. The largest work is an installation by Canadian artist Spring Hurlbut. La Somnolence (1999), consists of 150 antique children's beds collected by the artist over many years in France, the United States and Canada. It is a hauntingly beautiful work that honors the memory of forgotten orphaned children in the 19th century.
Why is only part of the collection on display?
Like most public art galleries, space and other resources are limited at the AGW. The annual exhibition program includes art from many sources including touring shows from other galleries and work belonging to artists and private collectors. The AGW strives to create a balance of exhibitions from the collection and from other sources to give visitors a rewarding experience. Also, some works of art, especially works on paper and textiles, are too fragile to be on display for more than a brief period.
How can I access the AGW collection?
Visit the Gallery often! The best way to get to know the AGW collection is to spend time at the gallery. Exhibitions are always changing. The more you visit the more you will appreciate what we have. You will see old favorites and new, at times, challenging works of art. Information about the collection is also available online through the Interactive Explore the AGW Collection page.
Who owns the AGW collection?
You do! Like a national park or heritage site, the collection belongs to the community. The AGW is a charitable organization that holds the collection in trust for all Canadians. It is part of our cultural heritage to be enjoyed and celebrated for generations to come.