VISUAL ARTS
THE BRAIN PROJECT is a series of sculptures honouring our most important organ, our brains. This special exhibition raises awareness of brain health. A number of artists have their work on display, with the five top works being voted on by the public. Afterwards, the artwork is auctioned off with proceeds going towards the Baycrest research hospital. Various locations in Toronto (Brainproject.ca, 416785-2500 ext. 6432). Until Aug. 31. CHERYL POPE EXHIBIT marks her first exhibition in Toronto to open this new project co-created with students from OCAD University and members of the community. Great Hall (1087 Queen St. W., 416-9277433). Until July 4. A CITY TRANSFORMED: IMAGES OF ISTANBUL THEN AND NOW Once known as Constantinople and Byzantium, Istanbul has thrived over the centuries to remain Turkey’s cultural and economic centre as well as its most populated city. This exhibition features nearly 70 images, from Omer M. Koc’s collection, of the city in the latter half of the 19th century. Aga Khan Museum (77 Wynford Dr., 416-646-4677). Until June 26. DESIGN FORWARD Some of the top Canadian designers put their latest fashions on the runway at this show specializing in ethically created clothing. Using the criteria of being locally made using fair-trade materials, with organic fabrics, natural dyes and created with zero waste; these articles of clothing were the products of a serious challenge. Artscape Sandbox (301 Adelaide St. W., 647-2927296). Today. HURVIN ANDERSON: BACKDROP The work of this British artist explores the social history of the Caribbean through large landscapes and interiors. Moving from the greenery of the Caribbean wilderness to the interiors of its cities, the diversity highlights some of the rapid changes in the region over the decades as portrayed in paintings, drawings, sculpture and photography. Art Gallery of Ontario (317 Dundas St. W., 416-979-6648). Until August 21. A LOVE LETTER TO THE GREAT LAKES A group of artists from around the world celebrate the largest freshwater lakes in the world through a series of outdoor murals. There are murals around the city, though the two primary spots are the intersections of Ossington Ave. & Queen St. W. and Queen St. W. near Soho St. Free. Monday until June 26. LUMINATO includes art, theatre, film, dance, music and literary events from local, regional and international artists, playwrights and filmmakers. They’ll be showcasing their talents to the city throughout this 17-day event. David Pecaut Square (corner of King St. W. and John St.) continues to be the hub for a full 10 days with nightly free concerts and events. Various locations in Toronto (416-368-4849). Until June 26. MADE IN CHINA: CULTURAL ENCOUNTERS THROUGH EXPORT ART Although the world seems to be getting smaller by the year, this exhibit highlights a time when the divisions between Europe and China were much smaller. On display are over 100 objects, including paintings, porcelain, lacquer, silver and photography, all produced in China during the 18th and 19th centuries. Taken from the ROM’s collections, many of the objects are rarely displayed and highlight a period of history when Europe was hungry for Chinese art. Royal Ontario Museum (100 Queen’s Park, 416-5868000). Until Aug. 1. MARCO SASSONE: HIS BOOTS AND OTHER WORKS The Italian artist’s love for footwear in all its many forms is on display at this exhibition featuring 10 oil paintings, nine being completely new. Bata Shoe Museum (327 Bloor St. W., 416979-7799). Until Sept. 5. PAINTING TRANQUILITY: MASTERWORKS BY VILHELM HAMMERSHOI To celebrate the Art Gallery of Ontario’s first acquisition of a painting by Vilhelm Hammershoi, this exhibition includes over 20 other paintings by the 19th-century Danish master. Art Gallery of Ontario (317 Dundas St. W., 416-9796648). Until July 3. SONG DONG’S COMMUNAL COURTYARD consists of 100 authentic Chinese wardrobe doors, creating small rooms and walkways to give the impression of how the lower classes live in cities such as Beijing. The installation is making its Canadian debut and is part of Dong’s ongoing series, Wisdom of the Poor. Art Gallery of Ontario (317 Dundas St. W., 416-979-6648). Until July 17. THOMAS RUFF: OBJECT RELATIONS This exhibition by the German photographer features 40 large works made with collected and found images that have been manipulated and altered in a number of ways. Art Gallery of Ontario (317 Dundas St. W., 416-979-6648). Until July 31. WHEN THE BEATLES ROCKED TORONTO Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Beatles’ last show in Toronto, this exhibit not only highlights the three shows the Beatles played in the city, but also how the ‘60s treated Toronto. Market Gallery (St. Lawrence Market) of the City of Toronto Archives (95 Front St. E., 416-3927604). Until Nov. 12.