Art Galleries
Explore works by local, Canadian, and international artists at public and private galleries
public Carleton University Art Gallery
Though it’s located outside the downtown core, this gallery has become a key facility for the city’s art scene. Two spacious floors showcase contemporary art from the gallery’s own collection as well as pieces from around the country. Its connection to the art history department at Carleton University means it regularly hosts exhibits relating to First Nations and Inuit artists. CUAG is truly a tresure trove of Canadian art. 1125 Colonel By Dr., 613-520-2120, cuag.ca
National Gallery of Canada
Creep past Maman, the giant bronze spider that resides in the gallery’s courtyard, to access this glass cathedral, a hallowed ground for historic and contemporary art. Recent changes have brought Indigenous works into prominence; many are now displayed alongside non-Indigenous Canadian and international art. Throughout the galleries, you will find such celebrated artworks as the controversial Voice
of Fire by Barnett Newman and the historically significant The Death of
General Wolfe by Benjamin West.
The gallery also houses the Canadian Photography Institute, which has one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of photographs. 380 Sussex Dr., 613-990-1985, gallery.ca
Ottawa Art Gallery
After a huge renovation that included installing a heritage staircase that connects three floors of gallery space, the Ottawa Art Gallery now has a fitting home to showcase their vast collection of works by Ottawa-area artists. Their Firestone Collection is unique in that the works tell the story of Ottawa’s art history. Make sure to pause in the new Jackson Café for drinks and light fare, as well as their boutique, which sells unique objects by local artists and tasteful souvenirs of Ottawa. 50 Mackenzie King Bridge, 613-233-8699, ottawaartgallery.ca
Karsh-Masson Gallery
Ottawa is renowned for the reputation of two of its 20th-century artists: photographer Yousuf Karsh and landscape painter Henri Masson. Karsh is known for his portraits of notable figures, including John F. Kennedy, Pierre Trudeau, and Winston Churchill, and (in fact, Karsh took the Churchill portrait that now adorns the British fivepound note). Masson, meanwhile, is recognized for his surrealist and cubist works of seemingly mundane Canadian cities. The Karsh-Masson Gallery inside city hall continues their proud legacy with displays by national and international artists in various media. 110 Laurier Ave. W.,
613-580-2424 ext.14167, ottawa.ca
SAW Gallery
Bold, challenging art by some of Canada’s more avant-garde artists is routinely shown at SAW Gallery, which is now located inside a renovated space that acts as a hub for Ottawa’s arts community. SAW also has a major film and video component, hosts regular art and music shows, and is a welcoming space for all. 67 Nicholas St., 613-236-6181, galleriessawgallery.com
cOMMERciAl Galerie St-Laurent + Hill
Since 1977, this commercial gallery has built a reputation on showcasing some of the best art Ottawa has to offer. Located in the ByWard Market, the gallery presents works by such new and established artists as Michael Harrington, Sarah Hatton, Jonathan Hobin, David Kaarsemaker, Whitney Lewis-Smith, Leslie Reid, and others. 293 Dalhousie St., 613-789-7145, galleriestlaurentplushill.com
Koyman Galleries
Established in 1965, Koyman represents over 175 Canadian artists — and it now boasts the largest gallery space in Canada, offering 13,000 square feet of viewing space across two floors. Though vast, the gallery gives the artwork the space it needs to be appreciated while
also providing seating areas for restful, contemplative pauses. Visitors can purchase prints by such prominent Canadian artists as Norval Morrisseau, Jean-Pierre LaFrance, and Charles Spratt, among others. 1771 St. Laurent Ave., 613-526-1562, koymangalleries.com
L.A. Pai Gallery
For 17 years, this gallery has been selling wearable art, unique jewellery, contemporary sculpture, and fine art made with a wide variety of materials. It is a small space, but there is no lack of energy here — in fact, art installations are frequent, and curator Lisa A. Pai creatively shares her discoveries in this much-loved space. Regular exhibitions feature Ottawa-area and Canadian artists, such as Montreal’s Lisa Creskey, Gatineau’s Mustapha Chadid, and Vancouver’s Mary Anne Barkhouse. 13 Murray St., 613-241-2767, lapaigallery.com
Wall Space Gallery
Focusing on art by contemporary artists from Ottawa and beyond, Wall Space showcases impressive works at various price points. The space is a lovely place to gaze upon large works but also holds small display cases with pieces perfect for gifting. Find handcrafted jewellery by Caelen Ellis, Kathryn Rebecca, Andrea Muellera, and other Canadian designers. Exhibits by local artists Patti Normand and Drew Mosley are notable. 358 Richmond Ave., 613-729-0003, wallspacegallery.ca