Talk future to me
Our fall lineup of future-focused talks was enlightening, to say the least. Just in case you weren’t around, we’ve got it all on video for you.
Naomi Klein & Ishael N. Daro. Image © Art Gallery of Ontario
Baillie Court was buzzing this fall, hosting fascinating and engaging presentations from a range of thought leaders and luminaries. With talks by artists currently showing exhibitions at the AGO, as well as a range of other avant-garde authors and thinkers, there was plenty of food for thought on offer. In case you weren’t able to make it, we’ve rounded up some footage.
AGO Futures is a series of artist, author and curator talks that examine the current issues inspiring artists working today. On September 20, the AGO welcomed global thought leader and author Naomi Klein to launch her new collection of essays On Fire: The (Burning) Case for a Green New Deal. After briefly presenting some of the central concepts in her book, Klein sat down for with Ishmael N. Daro for a more in-depth dialogue about our current climate crisis and its implications.
The following week, on September 30, our second installment of AGO Futures featured renowned literary figure Salman Rushdie. To celebrate the launch of his new novel Quichotte, he sat down for a discussion with comedienne and writer Candy Palmater. Quichotte is a modern day retelling of the 17th century classic Don Quixote, full of poignant social commentary and biting satirical wit.
Blur is the title of the debut solo exhibition by Canadian artist Sandra Brewster, currently on view at the AGO on Level 2 in the Mary & Harry Jackman Gallery (Gallery 238). In it, she uniquely uses photo-transfers to create the illusion of motion in an effort to explore layered experiences of identity. On October 2, Brewster spoke with Canisia Lubrin in Baillie Court, providing insight into the creative process behind Blur and sharing details about her life story and artistic practice.
German artist, writer and cultural critic Hito Steyerl is captivating visitors with her Canadian solo exhibition debut This is the future – a challenging and thought-provoking collection of seven works currently on view on Level 5 of the AGO’s Vivian & David Campbell Centre for Contemporary Art. On October 23, during her artist’s talk with Brian Droitcour, she explored the various concepts, juxtapositions and intentions behind key works in This is the future.
Impressed? Just wait until you see what we have in store for 2020. Our jam packed schedule of talks is sure to keep you engaged all winter!
Admission to the AGO Collection and all special exhibitions is always free for AGO Members, AGO Annual Pass holders and visitors 25 and under.