Resources for parents and teachers

Art Anywhere, Anytime – AGO From Home
In this unprecedented time, Art at the AGO is always here for you to inspire, imagine and create!

On this page you will find resources and activities to help teachers build visual literacy while developing skills in observation, interpretation, critical thinking and creativity…remotely!

ACTIVITIES

These activities are recommended for all ages. Colour, photograph, sketch and make your own art, and share it with #AGOmakes or #AGOfromHome.

Watch Tiana Roebuck, AGO Associate Curator, Learning & Studio Programs, make paper-cut shadow puppets using recycled materials found at home.

Shadow Puppets

Watch Tiana Roebuck, AGO Associate Curator, Learning & Studio Programs, make paper-cut shadow puppets using recycled materials found at home.
(19 minute video)

WATCH THE VIDEO
Paola Poletto stream-of-consciousness writing

Stream-of-Consciousness Writing

Inspired by Paul Klee's Hard and Soft drawing, Paola Poetto, Director of Engagement & Learning takes a moment to relax her mind with a simple writing exercise using pencil on paper. 
(2 minute video)

WATCH NOW
Tiana talks about soft sculpture

Soft Sculpture

Watch Tiana Roebuck, AGO Associate Curator, Learning & Studio Programs, make her own soft sculpture inspired by Claes Oldenburg's Floor Burger.
(13 minute video)

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Creating a grid

Tonal Painting

Watch AGO Manager of Strategic Projects Deborah Nolan make her own tonal painting inside a grid, using the colours blue and red inspired by Agnes Martin's The Rose.
(2 minute video)

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Educational Tours

The Art Gallery of Ontario offers educational tours that are led by highly trained teaching staff with expertise in museum learning. AGO educational tours support 21st century competencies that include:

  1. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Strategies
    We ignite critical thinking with discovery-based learning and student discussions that engage multiple perspectives. By encouraging students to analyze visual and verbal information and to make personal meaning, field trips support the growth of cultural and visual literacy.
  2. Innovative and Creative Process
    Artmaking workshops promote imaginative thinking and perseverance. Shifting the mindset to consider art as process reinforces continual experimentation, innovation and resilience.
  3. Learning to Learn
    Learning happens when one pauses to examine and question assumptions. By reflecting on issues and ideas, participants make real-world connections from one situation to another. Repeated practice of this disciplined inquiry prepares students to think critically about new events and ideas in the future.
  4. Collaborative Respect
    Working collaboratively to unpack a work of art or to create an art project helps students develop an appreciation for multiple perspectives, be comfortable with ambiguity and tolerate complexity. This equal respect for process and product supports future strong collaborators.
  5. Communication Skills
    Visual literacy is a key skill to understanding the world around us. Art supports new modes of communication and offers agency to students less proficient in verbal and writing skills. Through art, students collaboratively explore and communicate personal identity, while also promoting contemplation and well-being.
  6. Global Citizenship
    Students are encouraged to make interdisciplinary and cross-curricular connections that provide new perspectives and points of access. When asked to consider views and experiences from around the globe, they are building active connections among local and global issues and ideas.
     

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR EDUCATORS

Hank Willis Thomas, Black Power, 2008. Lightjet print, 62.2 x 100.3 cm. © Hank Willis Thomas. Courtesy of the artist and Jack Shainman Gallery, New York.
Workshops
Teacher Workshops: Celebrating Black Creatives
Saturday, January 11, 2025, 10:30 am – 1:00 pm

Join us for an exclusive Teacher Workshop focused on celebrating Black creatives. Following a guided tour of the exhibition The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century, you will create your own artwork inspired by your learnings.

More Info
A colourful mixed-media painting on paper depicting a diverse array of images in a gridded format.
Workshops
Teacher Workshop: Art and the Global Diaspora
Saturday, February 8, 2025 10:30 am – 1:00 pm
More Info
Alleluia by K.M. Graham. Acrylic painting on canvas.
Special Events
Teacher Event - Teacher's Night Out
Wednesday, March 19 5:30 – 6:30 pm 2025

Join the Teachers Access Program and be invited to this exclusive and complementary AGO Teachers Event in celebration of the spring.   Participate in an evening of art talks, generative artmaking, and a walk through the permanent collection, with a focus on International Women’s Day.  

More Info
black and white people looking at a person of colour in colour
Workshops
Teacher Workshop: Indigenous Art and Artists
Saturday, April 12, 2025 10:30 am – 1:00 pm
More Info

teacher development gird

TEACHERS’ ACCESS PROGRAM FAQs

I am a member of TAP, how do I book my class for a self-guided school visit to the Art Gallery of Ontario?

To help provide the best experience and ensure that all school groups have access to lunch table seating and a quick entry, all teachers will need to book online in advance and fees will apply.

Visit AGO.ca/school-visits for the booking form and more details. 

How do I receive my complimentary General Admission ticket through the Teachers’ Access Program?

To receive your complimentary General Admission ticket to the AGO, ensure you’re registered and logged into your AGO TAP account. Visit AGO.ca, add an adult ticket to your cart and proceed to checkout. Your TAP benefit will automatically be applied. Please note that activation of new AGO TAP registrations may take up to 72 hours. Upon entering the gallery, an AGO staff member may request to see your valid OCT card or proof of full-time teaching status along with your ticket.

Does this mean I can visit the gallery with my class anytime?

School groups are required to book their visits ahead of time for both self-guided and guided tours and studios. To book your visit, click here

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