Artists + Curators Wanted

Open Call for Exhibition Proposals

Gagné Contemporary Projects is actively looking for curators and artists who prefer a unique, neighbourhood exhibition space to present their work and engage their communities.

The building was built in the 1920’s as a horse stable. In 2020 it was renovated to make it waterproof, properly lit for artwork, and has been successfully presenting gallery shows from April to November (no winter shows, no heat!)

The gallery measures approximately 5m x 10m (15’ x 30’), which equals 42 sq m (450 sq ft). The walls of white, rough-cut lumber are over 3m tall (over 10 ft). The gallery is equipped with a ceiling-mounted projector. The main door (painted by Toronto legend RUNT) opens out to a lovely laneway alongside Hideaway Park.

GC Projects Location

The gallery is located in Toronto’s east end neighbourhood of Leslieville, near the intersection of Pape St and Dundas St East. Specifically it’s in the laneway behind the house at 136 Brooklyn Avenue. It is easily accessible by bus and streetcar.

How to Apply

There is no fee to apply.

Should your Proposal be approved, there is a $250 Deposit required in case of damages. The deposit will be returned in full at the end of the show provided no damages have occurred.

Group shows ONLY, please. (2 artists or more)

Send your Proposal to john@gagnecontemporary.com with the following (READ CAREFULLY):

– for Curators – 2 paragraphs maximum on the show idea, the artists included, types of artwork, timing preferred (start date, end date), Opening Reception plan, promotion plan (do you have email lists, media contacts, community contacts, etc). ALSO include up to 6 photographs (JPGs, under 1MB in size)

– for Artists – 2 paragraphs maximum on the show idea, the artists included, types of artwork, timing preferred (start date, end date), Opening Reception plan, promotion plan (do you have email lists, media contacts, community contacts, etc). ALSO include up to 6 photographs (JPGs, under 1MB in size) OR in the case of a larger group show, 2 photographs of artwork per artist.

Run of Show

Shows can run from 1 week to 1 month. The gallery can be open at your discretion, but at least 4 days a week (generally Thursday to Sunday).

Installation, Openings, Take Down

Artists and Curators are responsible for the installation, organizing and funding the Opening (if any), and clearing out the gallery when finished – all in a timely manner.

Sitting the Gallery

Artists and Curators are responsible for sitting the gallery – being present during the open hours and days. NOTE: there is no washroom on the premises. However there are restaurants and cafes around the gallery that can be used.

Sales and Percentages

Any and all sales are shared this way:

25% goes to Gagné Contemporary Projects. The remaining 75% goes to the artists and curators (if any) to divide as they see fit. All sales are processed through Gagné Contemporary Projects on-site and shared out with artists and curators at end of show, with a full accounting record of sales.

Proposal Selection Process

Proposals will be evaluated by John Gagné, founder and curator of Gagné Contemporary, and Joanne Tsianos, Assistant Director of the gallery. Applicants may be contacted for a discussion and further information regarding their Proposal.

To apply, or for any questions, email your Proposal to john@gagnecontemporary.com.

Thank you!