The November First Thursday: Performing Suzy Lake    

On November 6, AGO First Thursdays draws inspiration from the landmark exhibition Introducing Suzy Lake, featuring work by the Toronto-based artist who has been examining and critiquing ideals of the body, gender and identity since the late 1960s.

Majical Cloudz headlines the event. Currently on tour with Lorde, Majical Cloudz is a music and performance project initiated by Devon Welsh, who is joined by Matthew Otto to produce and perform the music. Their most recent album, Impersonator (2013), was long-listed for the Polaris Prize and included on Pitchfork’s list of the Top 50 Albums of 2013. 

The night will feature a series of performances responding to the themes and ideas that Lake explores in her work. 

Local theatre and performance artist Liz Peterson will present a work in response to Lake’s major installation Are You Talking To Me? Inside the exhibition, Lake’s work Choreographed Puppet will be brought to life for the first time in a live setting.

Dancer and choreographer Amelia Ehrhardt will animate the work Suzy Lake performed for the camera in the 70s, working with a puppet and puppeteers.

Karaoke! Music was a major influence on Suzy Lake, what is your favourite song to sing? What is your favourite song to hear? Share your vocals and experience the choices others make. 

Draw your own masterpiece amongst our Canadian collection, listening to expert musicians from the Royal Conservatory of Music playing works by 20th-century female composers.

Taking its cue from Suzy Lake’s project, have yourself painted with make-up by professional make-up artist and local promoter Margot Keith and her incredible assistants.

What’s your favorite artwork at the AGO? Grab a frame and share a picture of your favorite work and submit it for AGO People’s Choice recognition.

Pop-up talks inspired by Lake’s work and legacy will pepper the galleries. This month's speakers include Suzy Lake (as Suzy Spice); Sophie Hackett, Associate Curator, Photography; Georgiana Uhlyarik, Associate Curator, Canadian Art; and Claire Crighton, AGO Publications Editor.

Plus, DJs Sasha Von Bon Bon and Vanessa Kathleen and the return of the First Thursdays Night Market, which brings together a range of delectable food offerings created by the AGO’s culinary team. Don’t miss it!

Program designed by Sheila Sampath.