The RMG's collection consists of over 4,500 works of art, acquired either by purchase or gift. About 60 of these works are on view at any one time in the Permanent Collection galleries. Works are also loaned to other institutions locally, nationally, and internationally. The RMG collects historical, modern and contemporary Canadian art, and holds Canada's largest collection of works by Painters Eleven. The RMG also has a growing collection of Public Art.

The Thomas Bouckley Collection was donated to the RMG by the late Thomas Bouckley, collector and history enthusiast of Oshawa. The computerized collection comprises over 3,000 historical photographs of Oshawa and Durham Region, spanning over 100 years. The collection is a remarkable resource for understanding and engaging with Oshawa’s local history.

Questions regarding the Thomas Bouckley Collection should be directed to Sonya Jones, Curator of the Thomas Bouckley Collection. sjones@rmg.on.ca or 905 576 3000 x110

The RMG Library is the largest library in Durham Region devoted to fine art and the history of visual arts, and the largest and most comprehensive art library located between Toronto and Kingston. It is available to those interested in art for pleasure or serious research. Library resources include art books, artist monographs, artists’ files, clipping books, Canadian exhibition catalogues, slides, auction catalogues and an extensive journal collection.

The RMG Library is open to the public for in-library use by appointment only. Members of the RMG are able to borrow materials from the library. Please contact Sonya Jones to make an appointment at sjones@rmg.on.ca

In addition to collecting art, the RMG acquires research materials.

The RMG Archive holds many special collections. For complete information and to arrange time to view any archive collection, please contact Linda Jansma at ljansma@rmg.on.ca.