art galleries toronto

The Best Contemporary Art Galleries for Emerging Artists in Toronto

The best art contemporary galleries for emerging artists in Toronto let you get lost in the lively imaginations of some of the city's hottest up-and-comers in the scene. Some of these spaces are more raw, and some are almost as creatively designed at the art themselves.

Here are the best contemporary galleries for emerging artists in Toronto.


Mercer Union
1

Mercer Union

Somewhat unassuming from the outside but classy and calm on the inside, this Bloordale gallery doesn't just function as a space for showing art but also as a gathering place for events. With a history stretching back to 1979, this artist-centred spot has a focus on contemporary art.

The Local Gallery
2

The Local Gallery

Exciting art is always on display at this newer Little Italy gallery that's the brainchild of an ad agency and exclusively displays work by Toronto artists, so if hyper-local is your thing then this is the place for you.


General Hardware Contemporary
3

General Hardware Contemporary

If you're not careful, you might walk right by this Parkdale gallery that true to its name, looks a little more like an average hardware store from the outside. However, once you're inside, it's all crisp white walls, perfect lighting and a hushed atmosphere.

Patel Brown
4

Patel Brown

This Bloordale arts space exhibits work from a variety of people and has multiple locations for showings, including a 4,000-square-foot spot on Wade Ave. They aim to champion experimentation and identify gaps in representation with their exhibitions.


XPACE Lansdowne
5

XPACE Lansdowne

Run by artists, this Brockton Village space focuses on showcasing work from emerging, marginalized and student artists, as well as designers, curators and even writers. In addition, they do more than just exhibits by putting on programming like events, panels and workshops.


Dianna Witte Gallery
6

Dianna Witte Gallery

Around since 2002 in Leslieville, there's always something intriguing to draw you in hanging in the window of this gallery with hardwood floors and a relaxed feel, with art ranging from abstract patterns to landscape work.

Cooper Cole Dupont St.
7

Cooper Cole Dupont St.

Located on Dupont, the different levels of this gallery make for a layered experience when viewing the work of emerging artists displayed here. This gallery also has its very own podcast where artists dicuss their exhibitions and practices.


Alison Milne Gallery
8

Alison Milne Gallery

This Junction Triangle studio brings work from emerging artists and design together, functioning as a gallery as well as a business to put emphasis on commitment to honouring makers.

the plumb
9

the plumb

Some of the city's most talented fledgling artists have work displayed at this DIY artist-run space in the unexpected Corso Italia area. Administered by an ad hoc collective of artists, writers, and curators, this gallery prioritizes inclusivity.

Lead photo by

Fareen Karim at The Local Gallery


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The Best Contemporary Art Galleries for Emerging Artists in Toronto

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