A compelling new exhibition is inviting Toronto residents to explore what "home" truly means through an extensive collection of rare artifacts, contemporary art, and deeply personal community items. The free exhibition, titled "At Home in Toronto," runs through November 30 at the Market Gallery on the second floor of St. Lawrence Market at 95 Front Street East.
Living in one of the world's most multicultural cities, defining home can be both complex and deeply personal for many Torontonians. The exhibition poses thought-provoking questions: Is home where the heart is? Is it the people you love, your childhood residence, your parents' birth country, or simply where you currently live? These are the central themes that Market Gallery's exhibition explores, taking visitors through fascinating past, present, and future definitions of home.
The exhibition brings together an impressive collection of rare documents, photography, bold contemporary art, and treasured objects from both the city and community members. These items offer real-life reflections that explain why so many people choose to call Toronto their home. The display includes rare art and historical pieces that educate Torontonians about their city's rich heritage.
Among the notable works is Anishinabe Saulteaux artist Robert Houle's "Premises for Self Rule: The Royal Proclamation," which is part of a five-painting series reflecting on the government's promises to First Nations people regarding land through the creation of the 1763 Royal Proclamation. Another significant piece is a towering figure sculpture by Toronto-based Jamaican artist Frantz Brent-Harris, created as a symbol of resistance and cultural memory inspired by the Jamaican Junkanoo Festival.
Visitors can also view artwork by other renowned local artists, including Luis Jacob, Rebecca Baird, and Natalie Wood. Wood contributes two pieces to the exhibition: "All I want is to sweeten your tea" (2003) and "Missing" (2003). Beyond thought-provoking contemporary art, the collection features incredible personal artifacts filled with deep meaning, including a World War I soldier's return ticket to the city and intimate family heirlooms donated by local residents.
The exhibition also addresses current housing challenges through the screening of a documentary video about Canada's housing crisis, highlighting efforts to create safe and inclusive spaces for the community. This meaningful exhibition is part of a broader initiative by the Toronto History Museums, which encompasses collections, pop-up exhibitions, and a series of engaging programs across the city's 10 historic museums.
Market Gallery's exhibition is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with completely free admission. For more information about the exhibition, as well as pop-up exhibits and events throughout the city, visitors can go to www.toronto.ca/museums.
