RMG Fridays: The Backyard Opening

We’re excited to celebrate the opening of The Backyard at the RMG with our community!  Be one of the first to experience our reimagined greenspace that is community focused and rooted in creativity.

Throughout the evening we’ll have lots of activities on the go:

  • Meet the designers
  • Help us plant our raised beds with the Oshawa Garden Club
  • Paint a rock – yes, that pandemic tradition – with our L&E staff for our garden
  • Partake in refreshments from local vendors
  • Enjoy brilliant musical performances.

7:00 pm               Doors open

7:20 pm               Welcome, Introductions + Thank Yous

7:30 pm               Performance by Tania Joy

8:30 pm               Performance by the Professors of Funk

10:00 pm             Doors close

The Professors Of Funk is a powerhouse 9-piece band that plays the classic funk, R&B, soul, and Motown music of the 1960s and 70s – music meant to get people to move. This sizzling high-energy ensemble features elite professional musicians with a wide range of experience in groups large and small and backing up artists across a broad spectrum. The presence of a 3-piece horn section, added percussionist, and both male and female lead vocalists ensure that they deliver the authentic flavours found in that era’s timeless sound.

Folk-roots musician, Tania Joy has been using the last few years hone her songwriting, finally following up her 2013 EP, I’ll Be Around, with the release of her EP I Will Stand, produced by 2022 Juno Award winner Hill Kourkoutis (SATE, Digging Roots, Leela Gilday, Madison Violet), a multi-talented artist who played with Serena Ryder and was in The Weeknd’s original backing band.

This project is funded in part by: the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario and the Enabling Accessibility Fund; the Ontario Trillium Foundation Community Building Fund; and The City of Oshawa.

Funders

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Project Partners

Event Sponsors

Exhibitions Opening: Fountain of Dreams and Topographies

Join us on June 10, 2023 to celebrate two solo exhibitions at the RMG with brand new work by Aaron Jones and Anna Binta Diallo. Fountain of Dreams is an installation of audio, video, and photos by Aaron Jones that considers the spatial and multi-sensory qualities of haunting and remembrance. In Topographies, Anna Binta Diallo brings an assortment of image fragments into strata-like installations. Playing with physical and conceptual layers, these exhibitions share an interest in the interplay between permeable borders, whether geographical, geological, or generational.

Refreshments will be provided. Please join us for remarks at 2pm, followed by a tour of Topographies with artist Anna Binta Diallo.

Coming from Toronto? Sign up to ride our bus from OCADU to the RMG. The bus will depart OCADU at 12pm, with anticipated arrival at the RMG between 1 and 1:30pm. The bus will leave Oshawa at 3:45pm and return to OCADU for 5pm.

Anna Binta Diallo, Those mountains of shadows and valleys of light, from the Topographies series, 2023. Digital collage. Courtesy of the artist.
Aaron Jones, Wandering, 2023. Film still. Courtesy of the artist.

This weekend is also the 19th Annual Peony Festival and The RMG Spring Artisan Market! Check out the Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens at 155 Arena St. (just a 12 minute walk from the RMG) between 10 am to 4 pm on June 10th and 11th for family friendly activities and displays.Come back to the gallery on Sunday, June 11th from 11am to 4pm to shop for unique gifts and products by local artisans.

We’d like to thank TD Bank Group for their support of these exhibitions through the TD Ready Commitment.

Mother’s Day Tea

$55/adult

$28/ child under 12

Come join us for tea on Mother’s Day at The RMG!

Berry Hill Food Co. will be hosting seatings on May 13th and 14th. Bring all the moms for delicious prix fixe with tantalizing teas. Then tour our exhibitions and a visit to the RMG Shop. Treat the special people in your life, to local artisan treasures. Guests in for Tea will receive a 10% discount at the Shop.

All reservations are managed by Berry Hill Food Co.

Book your seat!

The RMG Spring Artisan Market

The Robert McLaughlin Gallery is very excited to host our first artisan market of the year in partnership with the City of Oshawa.

The RMG Spring Artisan Market will take place on Sunday, June 11th from 11-4PM. Our market will be conducted indoors, alongside the Oshawa Peony Festival.

Featuring high-quality artisans from across the GTA, we strive to provide a unique and local shopping experience.

Doors Open at the RMG

RMG

The Robert McLaughlin Gallery is celebrating Doors Open in Oshawa on May 6th. Come discover this year’s theme with us, FOOD!

Admission and events are all FREE!

Join a guided architecture + art tour

11 AM and 2 PM

Our welcoming Visitor Engagement Assistants will deliver tours of this stunning modern building. Discover the original vision for Oshawa’s public gallery, brought to life in 1969, and how architect Arthur Erickson designed a massive 36,000-square-foot extension that made the gallery what it is today.

Participate in a family-friendly art-making activity

10:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Have fun making your very own food inspired piece of art, combining gel plate printmaking with decorative paper collage techniques. It’s a recipe for creativity!

Spend time with our exhibitions

RMG Shop

Visit our gift shop

The Robert McLaughlin Gallery has a history of supporting and promoting local artists, artisans, and makers. The RMG shop features products from across Ontario, including jewelry, ceramics, books, home goods, and Indigenous designed and manufactured products. Each sale helps support local artisans and our free community programs.

The RMG Shop is located in the lobby of The Robert McLaughlin Gallery.

Explore more Doors Open events in Oshawa.

Seniors Spring Social

Let’s celebrate spring together! We are offering an afternoon of tea, tours, a floral arranging workshop, and watercolour painting opportunities. This free event is funded by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program.

Schedule of events

  • Tours of the RMG exhibitions at 1pm and 2pm
  • Watercolour Flowers workshop 1:30-2:00pm or 2:30-3:00pm (drop in maximum 15 per session)
  • Floral Arranging Workshop with Brookstead Flowers 1:30-2:30pm  (waitlist available)
  • Tea and Coffee in our onsite Arthurs Restaurant 1-3pm
Funded by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program

RMG Fridays: Put Your Best Heels Forward!

Come share Pride with us at the RMG! It takes courage to wear heels with confidence, imagine with a wig! Some of Durham’s best drag performers are going to show us how it’s done. Come see our divas and bring your hottest heels. Get ready to stomp down the runway at the end of the night!

Orlandra Bloom is your Filipina Goddess and dancing diva of Oshawa! This queen loves to hit the stage all over Ontario and can often be found dipping, spinning, and splitting to all her favourite hits. Orlandra is a natural born drag queen who has always admired the women in her life and how they’d get themselves put together.

Big D. Elle sashayed into the Toronto drag scene a year ago and has been delivering jaw-dropping performances across the GTA ever since. Bearded and beautiful, they are here, they are queer, and they are ready to turn the party.

Kali Kontour is a young drag artist from Oshawa. Kali was inspired to start drag after teaching herself how to sew and do makeup during the COVID-19 lockdowns. She began performing in March 2022 and has taken Durham Region by storm over the last year. Since beginning drag Kali has had the opportunity to teach children about Pride during story times, participate in her first ever drag pageant, and connect with so many inspirational people that she is honoured to have had the opportunity to meet. Kali’s favourite part of drag is the opportunity to connect with her inner femininity that she often felt ashamed of as a child. Now, she is fearless.

Audrey Gold Bloom is a new drag performer who first hit the stage earlier this year. Her inspirations are old school divas, dance hits, and contemporary power performers. Audrey is a sensational performer who knows how to command the stage. This young queen is a force to be reckon with and is set for the stars!

Playing in the Lookout

F^¢K ‘€M R!GHT B@¢K 

(12.5 mins)

Directed by Harris Doran

A queer Black Baltimore rapper must outwit his “out-to-get-him” day job boss, in order to avoid being fired after he accidentally takes drugs.

Edgy

(2.5 mins)

Student film from Germany

Directed by Kilian Armando Friedrich, Ann-Kathrin Jahn, Jonas Kleinalstede, Schnekenbühl Katharina, Paula Tschira

Edgy lives in a world of blocks, but somehow doesn’t seem to fit.

In the Studio

The vibes are immaculate in the studio with Farah. We will be painting mini magnet canvases that can be displayed proudly. Pride themed designs will be provided, no prior art experience necessary!

Special thanks to DRIFF in a Jiff, RBC and Tourism Relief Fund for their support with this event.

RMG Fridays: Renewal

May is here, just in time for a renewal!

Join us for Emerging Visions, the art exhibition of Durham College’s Fine Arts Advanced students. We are excited for this new Exhibition showcasing their thesis collection. Downstairs on the lower level, DRIFF in a Jiff in the Lookout, and an open art activity in the Art Studio with Farah. Starapples Restaurant is popping up in the lobby and will be dishing out delicious eats for sale. We will also be featuring performances by Delon Om and HADDIX.

Timeline of Events

7:00 – Doors Open

7:15 – Drop-in Studio Activity (Education Studio, Level 1)

7:15 – DRIFF in a Jiff Film Screening + Director Q&A (Lookout, Level 1)

7:25 – Opening Remarks and Welcome (Isabel Gallery, Level 3)

7:30 – Performance by Delon Om (Isabel Gallery, Level 3)

8:15 – Exhibition Opening Remarks with Sean McQuay (Durham College) and Hannah Keating (RMG) (Gallery A, Level 1)

8:20 – DRIFF in a Jiff Film Screening + Director Q&A (Lookout, Level 1)

8:40 – Performance by HADDIX (Isabel Gallery, Level 3)

Born and raised in Pickering, Ontario, Canadian singer/songwriter Delon Om is a former contestant on Canadian Idol. After co-writing one song with Juno award-winning producer Sheldon Moore, Om was catapulted to instant stardom when Virgin Radio 99.9 (CKFM Toronto, Canada) welcomed the single “Superstar” into rotation. “Superstar” hit the airwaves in 2016 and it didn’t take long for the record labels to take heed of this: he was courted by both Sony and Ultra Records. After signing with Ultra Records, Om collaborated with Alex Gaudino, a prolific DJ in the global community. In 2018, he was invited to perform at the 13th Annual Caribbean Hall of Fame Awards. His single “What We Guh Do Now?” (Featuring Juno-nominated artist Trinity Chris) held the #1 spot on various radio charts in Jamaica for 3 months. Another one of his singles, “Someone Special to Me”, was featured in the critically acclaimed documentary “This is for Toronto”. In 2021, Om teamed up with two-time Canadian Latin Award winner BenAnthony LaVoz and Latin Grammy winner Sensei Musica to release “The Gentleman & Scholar”, which was nominated for three Canadian Latin Awards. Om has recently worked with Juno-nominated producer T.J. Habibi on his critically acclaimed solo album “Theatre of Cruelty”, which won two OMAs in 2022 for “Best Emerging Artist” and “Best Music Video.” Om is currently signed to Sony Music and is working on new music for MTV, some of which will be featured in shows like Catfish, Teen Mom and the reboot of Jersey Shore.

HADDIX is a high energy pop-rock artist from Toronto Ontario. After releasing music written aside Grammy nominated songwriters in Nashville TN, HADDIX launched her first live shows in 2022, debuting at NXNE ’22! Since then she has taken her show on the road with her
incredible band, opening for Juno nominated talent and gaining attention in the Canadian
music scene. Her 6 singles released to date explore themes of love, empowerment and self confidence. Being apart of the 2+LGBTQ1A community, she hopes that her music resonates with all music lovers and that everyone can see a piece of themselves in her music. Simply put – be ready to see one hell of a show!

DRIFF in a Jiff will be downstairs in the lookout with film screenings at 7:30PM. The filmmakers will be on site to answer questions.

He Comes at Night (10 mins)
Directed by Joseph Covello
Produced by Krystle Ferdinand

On a stormy night, an anxious eight-year-old from a fractured home wakes up to the terrible realization that the monster under her bed may be real.

Join Farah in the studio to decorate a mini planter pot! Springtime designs and colour choices are available to get the creativity flowing. No prior arts experience necessary!

Special thanks to Starapples, RBC Foundation’s Emerging Artist Project, and DRIFF in a Jiff for their support with this event.

RMG Fridays: Piecework

On March 31st, join us for the opening of two new exhibitions alongside our regularly scheduled RMG Friday!

Timeline of Events

6:00 – Doors Open

6:15 – Opening Remarks and Welcome (R.S. McLaughlin Gallery, Level 3)

6:20 – Introduction to Piecework with Tour + Artist Talks (R.S. McLaughlin Gallery, Level 3)

6:50 – Introduction to Brigitte Sampogna: Nowhere. No, Where? Now here with Tour + Artist Talk (Gallery A, Level 1)

7:00-8:30 – Drop-in Studio Activity (Education Studio, Level 1)

7:30-8:15 – DRIFF in a Jiff Film Screening + Director Q&A (Lookout, Level 1)

8:30-9:30 – Musical Performance by Mimi O’Bonsawin (Isabel Gallery, Level 3)

We are so excited to present two new exhibitions at the RMG: Piecework and Brigitte Sampogna’s, Nowhere. No, Where? Now here. Join us at 6pm to help us celebrate the work of 11 incredible artists.

Hangama Amiri, Woman Before A Mirror, Muslin, cotton, polyester, dyed fabric, nylon tulle, velvet, chiffon, silk, sued, and found fabrics, 73” x 53.5”, 2022. Courtesy of the artist and T293 Gallery.

We are so excited to celebrate the opening of two new exhibitions at the RMG!

Using the materiality of quilt making as a metaphor for how the fabric of the world holds together, Piecework is an exhibition that brings together a group of contemporary artists who use textiles and assemblage as world-building tools. 

Nowhere. No, where? Now here. is an exhibition by RBC Emerging Artist in Residence Brigitte Sampogna, which uses a laundry line as a metaphor for the cyclical nature of self-discovery and was produced during her winter residency at the RMG.

Artists from both exhibitions will be with us on Friday to share their works and ideas with us.

The party continues with a guided studio activity, film screenings with DRIFF in a Jiff, and a spellbinding musical performance by Mimi O’Bonsawin.

Also new at the RMG: Painters Eleven: Ontario’s Abstract Collective and Mary Rawlyk: Domestic Disruptions

DRIFF in a Jiff will be downstairs in the lookout with film screenings at 7:30PM. The filmmakers will be on site to answer questions.

The Test (11 mins)

Directed by Martin Baena

Written/Produced by Noah R. Taylor

An eccentric driving examiner takes advantage of a young man trying to get his licence.                                                          

On the Fence  (6.5 mins)

Directed by Paula Ner Dormiendo

This short, thoughtful film presents several intertwined conversations with a group of multicultural individuals and their struggle with identity.

Drop in to the education studio between 7:00 and 8:30 to participate in a creative activity for all ages that asks: What does comfort mean to you? Inspired by our new exhibition, Piecework, this activity invites you to fill paper quilt pieces with patterns that express your own personal interpretation of comfort. All of the pieces will be added to a quilted mural on the studio wall as an expression of community and creativity.

Mimi O’Bonsawin is a contemporary roots singer-songwriter from Northeastern Ontario. Through her rhythm and story-driven songs, Mimi embraces the beauty of the land, all the while yielding to her Franco-Ontarian and Abenaki roots. In her music you will find sounds from the forest, uplifting melodies and introspective lyrics weaved with pop sensitivities and acoustic instruments. The layers of percussion and surprising harmonies make you feel the music rather than just hear it. Mimi will be performing from her new album: Willow.

Special thanks to DRIFF in a Jiff and RBC for their support with this event.

RMG Fridays Presents: Black Lit Durham and Desarae Dee

Join us for an evening with Black Lit Durham and Desarae Dee!

Welcome back to our RMG Fridays for 2023! We will be celebrating an evening of Poetry! With an introduction from Kesha Christie, will feature 3 unique Poets for your heart and Soul. Speaking of Heart and Soul, we have the beautiful Desarae Dee back for a solo performance! DRIFF is also onsite to deliver a double feature of Iranian Films, Boiled Tea and enigmatic, Identibye.

7 PM – Doors open

7:15 PM – DRIFF Film Screening in the Lookout

7:30 PM – Introduction by Kesha Christie and poet performances

8:30 PM – DRIFF Film Screening in the Lookout

8:45 PM – Desarae Dee performance

Kesha Christie is a dynamic storyteller and speaker. She connects people and culture through African and Caribbean folktales and stories that hook and ignite the imagination. She has shared stories with listeners in the Caribbean, the US, India and across Canada.  Performing in schools, libraries, festivals, and community, corporate and special events. She has a weekly podcast called Walk Good and a YouTube channel under Talkin’ Tales, which amplify the power of stories.  

Kesha is board member of the Storytellers of Canada, and founder of an annual storyteller event, which celebrates the oral tradition and showcases local entrepreneurs in the community.  For more information visit www.talkintales.ca. 

Judith Shaw
Judith Shaw is a poet and a member of the Durham Storytellers. She is the author of a children’s book “My Grandmother Said Art Is Everywhere”. Judith was born in Kingston, Jamaica and raised by her Grandma Wawa. Judith believes grandparents are wise and special, and that they should be loved, honoured and respected. Judith works as a visiting home Registered Practical Nurse (RPN), but also finds delight tapping into her artistic abilities. She enjoys daydreaming and believes art arrives from the ability to dream and from the freeing of our imagination.

Shakkoi aka Need Some Koi
Shakkoi aka Need Some Koi is a multi talented creative excelling in dance instruction and spoken word poetry. After performing as a dancer for six years, she is now focusing on making sure the world hears why they too Need Some Koi through her speaking, hosting and comedy appearances. Floetry Fitness, her business that focuses on creating spaces for movement and poetry, has been seen on Breakfast Television’s Movin in the Mornings, as well as Nia Centre, Black Women in Motion and the City of Pickering. With plenty of experiences to share, there is no doubt that everyone needs some Koi in their lives!

Desarae Dee
Desarae Dee is a Canadian Instrumental Fusion Artist, Multi-Instrumentalist and Producer who has made significant waves in the Canadian music industry with her unique and unconventional playing style since 2014. Known as “Toronto’s Queen of Vibes,” her passionate and meaningful sound combines a unique mixture of faith, soul, vulnerability and divine balance. 8 years into her life as a music artist, she has established herself as a genre-bending and boundary-pushing artist. She has an extensive resume that includes an abundance of music releases, in addition to regional touring, features on Spotify’s Fresh Finds Jazz, NPR Music’s Jazz Night: On The List and Jazz Night Staff’s Holiday Faves playlists, national and international media and radio coverage and a Top 100 finish in the 2022 CBC Music Searchlight competition. In addition to her numerous musical accolades, Desarae was one of five recipients of the 2022 SiriusXM Black Canadian Awards powered by the SOCAN Foundation. As someone who never saw herself represented in the entertainment industry, Desarae has blazed a trail of authenticity and genre exploration while continuing to break barriers in the industry and forge a path for current and future Black Women Musicians.

Downstairs in the Lookout

Join DRIFF downstairs in the Lookout for two short films.

Screenings repeat at 7:15pm and 8:30pm.

Identibye (15 mins)
(Persian with English subtitles)
Winner of multiple awards internationally, including Best International Short at DRIFF 2022
Director: Sajjad Shahhatami
Without a single word being uttered by the protagonist, the actor and director draw us into a struggle with identity few of us can imagine.

Boiled Tea  (15 mins)
(Persian with English subtitles)
The family is getting ready to celebrate Samaneh’s birthday, but a pack of tea changes everything!

Special thanks to DRIFF in a Jiff for their support with this event.

The RMG reserves the right to cancel this event due to circumstances beyond RMG’s control or not reasonably anticipated, including but not limited, to weather, or inability of Facility to host Event.