Withrow Common Gallery
Withrow Common is named in honour of the Canadian National Exhibition Association’s founder: John Jacob Withrow (1833-1900).
In addition to his leadership in creating a permanent exhibition on these grounds in 1879, Mr. Withrow served as founding president of the Toronto Industrial Exhibition Association, which was re-named the Canadian National Exhibition Association in 1912. Mr. Withrow served as the fair’s President from 1879 until his death in 1900.
A businessman, politician, and philanthropist, Mr. Withrow made many contributions to the city and community during his lifetime. He also served as an alderman for the City of Toronto from 1873 to 1878.
About Withrow Common
An initiative of the Canadian National Exhibition Association (CNEA), Withrow Common is an exciting new community event space located at Toronto’s Exhibition Place, across from the Princess Margaret Fountain.
The 2,675 square-foot venue lives in the west side of the Queen Elizabeth Building complex, which was constructed in 1957.
Designed by architects Page + Steele Inc., led by designer Peter Dickinson, the structure exemplifies the mid-century Modernist architecture movement in Toronto in the 1950s. This was a movement in which Dickinson played a prominent role (Ontario Association of Architects).
The building was originally envisioned as the CNE’s Women’s Building and was re-named the Queen Elizabeth Building in 1957. It has a long and rich history of hosting exhibits and educational events. Most recently, the space served as the Executive Offices for the Exhibition Place Board of Governors.
In 2016, the CNEA won a bid to redevelop these offices as a multi-purpose gallery space to facilitate events and workshops for the neighbouring community and beyond.
The renovation of the space was completed in 2017. The CNEA’s overall design concept for the renovation of the building was to honour its mid-century Modernist history, while embracing a clean, simple and contemporary look.
For more information about the gallery, hours and services available, visit the FAQ page or contact us at [email protected]
Exhibits
Current Events
The Sublime: A Collection by Reynold Thomas
This collection is an exploration of the philosophy of the beautiful and the perceptions of the beautiful in an attempt to expand beyond calculation, measurement or imitation.
Live Model Art Classes with Female Motivators
During Black History Month, our guest sitters will feature female leaders that are making history right now. These art classes will encourage you to sketch, listen to stories, write poetry or simply vibe with a camera in your hand!
Past Exhibits
Fragility of Peace
The exhibition juxtaposes the works created in peace and war times, emphasizing the fragile nature of peace, and that it should never be assumed. It should be fought for and requires constant hard work and devotion to keep it.
Charles Pachter: A Romance with Canada
The iconic work of the esteemed Canadian artist Charles Pachter will be showcased at the 2022 CNE.
Invasion Redux
Gallery guests can observe “art-in-the-making” as the two artists work on pieces that respond to the deadly and tragic events resulting from Russia’s current assault on their homeland.
Our Sponsors
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Government Partner
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Presenting Partner
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have parking available?
Paid parking is available in the north lot of Withrow Common Gallery. During events at Exhibition Place, parking prices may vary.
How much does admission cost?
Please check event pages for pricing.
What are the Gallery Hours?
The Withrow Common Gallery hours are subject to exhibit schedules. For specific gallery hours, please visit the event page. For any other times or private showings, please email us at [email protected].
How do I get to Withrow Common via Public Transit?
Click here for a Google map to the Withrow Common Gallery. Alternatively, click here for an onsite map to Withrow Common. If you are taking GO Transit, exit at Exhibition Station. For TTC – TTC Buses & Streetcars offer direct service to the CNE, stopping at the Dufferin Gate Loop (west end of CNE grounds) and Exhibition Loop (via east end of grounds). Visit ttc.ca for “Best Route” information.
How do I know when there are new exhibits?
Covid-19 Mask Policy
In accordance with public health guidelines as issued by the Provincial and Municipal governments we will not be enforcing mandatory mask requirements at this time. Guests are welcome, but not required to wear face coverings.
Contact Us
Opening Hours
Please check event pages for Withrow Common hours.