How about stepping back in time right here at The Market Gallery? This isn’t just another gallery. It’s a portal to Toronto’s past. The Market Gallery offers changing exhibits dedicated to Toronto’s history art and culture.
Located within the historic St. Lawrence Market, The Market Gallery occupies a unique space. It is on the second floor of the South St. Lawrence Market. More precisely, it stands on the south-west corner of Front Street East and Jarvis Street. What makes it special? This gallery is housed in what was once Toronto’s City Hall from 1845 to 1899. This very space was the original council chamber. Imagine the decisions made within these walls.
The Market Gallery officially opened its doors in 1979. It serves as an exhibition facility for the City of Toronto’s Culture Division. The 19th-century council chamber now serves as the main display area. Here, thematic exhibitions showcase the art, culture, and history of Toronto. You will find paintings artifacts and photographs among other items.
Though time has passed, echoes of the past remain at The Market Gallery. Few original furnishings from the old City Hall have survived. But some significant pieces endure. The paintings and sculptures you see in photographs of the council chamber are still part of the City’s art collection. The Mayor’s chair has been restored. It often sits in its original location. It is right in front of the large fan window.
The Market Gallery spans 1955 square feet of display space on the second floor. Additionally, there are 1700 square feet on the third floor. These areas are for offices workrooms and storage. The total area is 3655 square feet.
Exhibits at The Market Gallery rotate every four to five months. Past exhibits include “The St. Lawrence Ward A Pictorial View of Toronto’s Oldest Neighbourhood”. “Dancing Through Time Toronto’s Dance History from 1900-1980” was another. Also, “People and Places of Riverdale” are among the exhibitions of the Market Gallery. The Market Gallery also provides insight into its historical significance on their website.
Visitors to The Market Gallery can engage in various educational programs. Twelve different sessions align with the Ontario curriculum. Subjects cover various disciplines including history. Seniors and community groups can book general history presentations. Some presentations even include a Victorian Tea.
The Market Gallery is open year-round. You can visit from Tuesday to Friday between 10 am and 4 pm. On Saturdays, it opens from 9 am to 4 pm. Admission is free. So, step inside and let the stories of Toronto unfold around you.