VISUAL ARTS
60 YEARS OF MADE IN ITALY
FASHION features over 50 garments worn on some of the biggest nights in fashion history, including the Oscars red carpet. See Italian fashion from its inception in Florence in 1951, through to its evolution in modern day design. Presented in partnership with the consulate general of Italy and the Istituto Italiano di Cultura. Yorkville Village (55 Avenue Rd., 416-9688680). Until June 30.
ALANNA PETERS: EVANESCENCE This Toronto-based artist’s oil paintings look at water and wind as a way of investigating impermanence and constant change. Blue Crow Gallery (1610 Gerrard St. E., 647-427-2400). Until June 25.
ALTER EGO: COMICS AND CANADIAN IDENTITY Explore Canadian heroes in comic books, such as Scott Pilgrim, Captain Canuck, Nelvana and Kagagi, as well as the talented Canadian comic creators themselves. Exhibit created by Library and Archives Canada. Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge St., Torontopubliclibrary.ca). Until July 29.
JAPAN NOW: SURFACE features clay art pieces by groundbreaking Japanese ceramists who are taking the world by notice. Throughout the year there will be three lobby displays curated by Joan B. Mirviss who has been a New York City gallery owner for 40 years. Gardiner Museum (111 Queen’s Park, 416-586-8080). Until Sept. 3.
MANOLO BLAHNIK: THE ART OF SHOES is a travelling exhibition, as well as the final North American stop, by one of the world’s most predominant fashion industry figures. Crossing the boundaries between fashion and art, these shoes inspire elegance and perfection. Bata Shoe Museum (327 Bloor St. W., 416-979-7799). Until Jan. 6, 2019. NIGHT GARDEN has digital design, fine art and photography, as well as performances from spoken word artists and musicians who embody the heart of our city. Hosted by local arts collective Rhozeland. Tickets $10. Super Wonder Gallery (584 College St., 416-516-5457). Saturday, 9 p.m. until 2 a.m.
PHILIP BEESLEY: TRANSFORMING SPACE This visually stunning, interactive piece with shuddering kinetic mechanisms is a not to miss experience! Royal Ontario Museum (100 Queen’s Park, 416-586-8000). Until Oct. 8.
PLUS ART FESTIVAL is a celebration of the next generation of Canadian artists with a Master of Fine Arts degree as well as risktaking practises spanning across drawing/painting, sculpture/installation, film/video and more. Exhibitions, programming series and film screenings. Don’t miss the Opening Reception tonight from 7-10 p.m. Gladstone Hotel (1214 Queen St. W., 416-531-4635). Friday-Sunday.
ROBERT FONES: SIGNS/ FORMS/NARRATIVES This Governor General Award-winning artist is known for his exquisitely rendered paintings and hybrid photographic sculptures, with this exhibit highlighting his most influential artworks. Organized and circulated by Museum London. Don’t miss the Letterforms Workshop with Robert Fones this Saturday at 1 p.m. Art Museum, Justina M. Barnicke Gallery (7 Hart House Cir., 416-978-8398). Until June 22.
SPECTRUM celebrates Pride Month in Toronto, with art that supports equality and values diversity. Meet the artists and hear stories behind the art at the opening reception on Friday from 7-11 p.m. Artusiasm Gallery (1684 St. Clair Ave. W., 416-970-7235). Until Sunday.