The Art Gallery of Ontario, Ontario, Canada

International Exhibitions

In a spirit of experimentation, the The Art Gallery of Ontario has embarked on a collaborative project with British philosopher Alain de Botton and philosopher and art theorist John Armstrong to bring to life their recent publication, Art as Therapy. In this already bestselling book, the authors pose questions that lie at the heart of art museums and their future well-being: How can art address issues that engage us all? How can art help us to understand ourselves and to lead richer lives? De Botton and Armstrong will select works of art from the AGO's diverse collection based on themes of universal significance, such as love, politics and money.

Each theme will be installed in a separate space within the Gallery. Visitors can embark on a journey of discovery that will find them exploring different art, and a different part of themselves, in each space, or station. “Art,” according to the authors, “has a powerfully therapeutic effect. It can variously help to inspire, console, redeem, guide, comfort, expand and reawaken us.” Don't miss this innovative installation. It offers a unique opportunity to view both the AGO's collection — and ourselves — in an intriguing new way.