Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art
The Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art is world renowned for its collection of artifacts representing world cultures and natural history
The Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art was first opened in 1984 by founders George and Helen Gardiner to showcase their growing collection of of pottery and porcelain and ceramic artifacts from Europe, China and Ancient America. The collection now consists of over 3,000 historical as well as contemporary pieces from around the world. Temporary exhibitions showcase new works of art, so there is always something new to see here as well.
You can visit the Gardiner Museum between 4 and 9pm on the third Friday of every month for free. You can also visit during the same time period for half-price on any other Friday.
The museum is located directly across from the Royal Ontario Museum and is housed in a building featuring modernist architecture. The museum also has a retail shop, a restaurant and 'clay classes' (additional charge).
If you have and interest in ceramic collectables and art you will definitely enjoy the Gardiner Museum. For additional information about the Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art see their official website above.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes - Special Rates available on Fridays (see article)Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: 111 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C7, Canada
Phone: (416) 586-8080
Official Website: Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art
Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art Reviews
Rated
out of 5 Next to the AGO (Art Gallery of Ontario), the Gardiner Museum is at the top of my list in my books. They have well curated permanent and special exhibits that are interesting and awe inspiring. Even the building architecture is gorgeous with its modern cubic contours situated between heritage buildings.
I went end of May 2024 and they had a special exhibit on local and International ceramicists. Beautiful pieces, delicate works of art.
Sometimes they have talks by visiting professionals and experts which are wonderful, many topics to stimulate the mind and satiate the enthusiasm for art information.
They have a stunning dining and patio area at the rooftop.
Highly recommend paying a visit to this museum when they open in October 2024z
Anna M - 4 months ago
I didn’t know what to expect when I first looked this museum up, but I’m so glad I decided to check it out! Even though the museum is under construction, I was able to “pay what I can” to check out the second and third floor exhibits. The pottery and ceramics on display were breathtaking. I loved how there was a part that showed how chines porcelain was crate from start to finish, as well as showing
Rebekah Huber - a month ago
I had the pleasure of creating a flower installation for a wedding client with my business The Moody Blooms last summer. The operations staff were super helpful and loading in was relatively easy. The spaces available for a private function are filled with natural light and the decor/ furniture has a contemporary feel. This was my favorite venue to flower in the city. Thanks for having us! There is a elevator to access the restaurant space on the second floor. I also had a vendor meal during this lovely wedding and it was delicious.
Katie Flohr - 9 months ago
Easily the best museum in Toronto. Collection is dynamic (all colors and shapes of ceramics), surprising (a porcelain monkey orchestra??), and emphasizes the Canadian while representing the world. Temporary exhibits are always fantastic, and the building's design is modern, elegant, and full of light (all without mentioning excellent city views from the upper deck).
Ben Elhav - 5 months ago
I enjoyed the second floor more than the first floor. The exhibits on the first floor was a bit all over the place. The exhibits in the middle of the room had all the items' description on the left hand side, so you'd be breaking your neck looking back and forth to see the item being described. Some displays are placed waaaay too low on the bottom.
The second floor was better organized, better lit, and more interesting (imo).
Their website wouldn't let me buy a ticket (clicking on I agree to the terms wouldn't register), so had to go and buy it in person but at least I can get a Presto discount.
The floors could've been cleaner and I saw the occasional fingerprints on the glass displays (this was during a working day so not much foot traffic).
All that said, it was fun and informative to take in the historical tidbits about Chinese/Japanese/European ceramics/porcelains. You can easily spend above 2 hours if you take your time reading.
Tarek K - 9 months ago
Directions
TTC Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
---|---|---|
Yonge-University-Spadina | Museum Station | 2 Minutes |
How to get to Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art by TTC Subway
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