Are you an artefacts and culture admirer? Or do you love observing cermics and porcelain collections? For someone who admires artwork, Gardiner musuem is definetly a spot to visit.
I recently visited the Gardiner Museum in Downtown, Toronto. By using the TPL map website, I gained free admission with my TPL card. I took the subway to Museum Station and walked to the museum, which is located directly across from the Royal Ontario Museum. Upon arriving at the entrance, I saw the renowned striped sculpture "Untitled" by Jun Kaneko and the broken porcelain artwork "Broken Wheat" by Shary Boyle. I presented my TPL map pass at the reception, where they printed an entry ticket for me.
(Photo of 'Untitled' by June Kaneko)
The Gardiner Museum, founded in 1984 by George and Helen Gardiner, has evolved into a prestigious institution focused on preserving, studying, and celebrating ceramics. Its collection spans a range of cultures and periods, featuring ceramics from Ancient Americas, the Italian Renaissance, Asian porcelain, and contemporary works.
(Photo of Broken Wheat by Sharyle Boyle)
I began my visit from the basement, where I appreciated various porcelain artifacts and saw an artist creating clay models in the studio. I then proceeded upstairs to explore more porcelain pieces. The first floor features rotating exhibitions of contemporary ceramics from both Canadian and international artists.
The second floor is dedicated to historical collections, showcasing European ceramics, including Italian Renaissance maiolica and English Delftware, as well as Ancient American ceramics from Indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica, the Andes, and more.
One collection that stood out to me was of intricately crafted porcelain perfume bottles.
The museum also houses iconic works such as 'Tantric Frog Buddha', 'Saint Sebastian Teapot' and a masterpiece from the 18th century Meissen por "Kakiemon Elephant" (Japanese Kakiemon Porcelain), which highlights the delicate, vibrant style of Japanese Kakiemon ware.
The 'Double spout and bridge bottle with mythical being' caught my attention.
The top floor of the museum showcases its Asian ceramics collection, including porcelain and stoneware from China, Japan, and Korea. A prominent section, the Japanese Porcelain Gallery, displays exquisite works that reflect the precision of Japanese ceramic traditions. I also loved this contemporary art piece of a woman.
The Clay Restaurant offers a distinctive dining experience with seasonal, locally sourced dishes served on artisanal ceramics, blending culinary and visual art in a farm-to-table approach that aligns with the museum’s artistic focus.
There is also a section called Clay Works, where visitors can paint porcelain pieces using pens and markers, contributing to a community art display. I created a simple design of a plant with two words. Though it was a small space, the museum's collection was impressive.
The museum also offers frequent paid clay and pottery classes.
After my visit, I took a leisurely walk through the streets of downtown, enjoying the evening atmosphere. Until next time, stay happy and stay strong!
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