As you probably already know, the new Just Like Me exhibition – in the equally new Kids’ Gallery – is a big hit with 5-12 year olds and their families. Lorrie Ann Smith (manager, Young Audience Engagement and Learning) smiles at the thought. The strategy is working!’

“These families are one of the AGO’s five target audiences,” she explains. “That’s why we want to get kids into the Gallery in a way that includes real art – create a family-friendly space where they can experience the art, take photos, make drawings, post a comment on Instagram… “

Lloyd De Witt (curator, European Art), Sophie Hackett (associate curator, Photography) and Andrew Hunter (curator, Canadian Art) helped put the exhibition together. Their goal: really engage our young visitors, in every possible way.

“All the works of art – paintings, sculpture and photos – show children going about their lives, and are displayed child-height, with extended captions to prompt discussion,” says Lorrie Ann. “The art ranges through time and through different parts of the world as well, reflecting the diversity of our audiences.”

The idea is to encourage lots of interaction. They’re getting it – sometimes in unexpected ways. “We put up rails to hold the exhibition’s collection of books,” says Lorrie Ann. “People kept taking down the books and propping up their own artwork instead.” She laughs. “Now the books are displayed in a box.”

The photo booth, complete with its iconic West Wind backdrop, is another big hit. Children ransack the props, from outsize glasses to capes and tiaras, create their favourite look, and mug for the camera.

“Visitors are invited to download the app #agokidsgallery and then post their photos and comments to Instagram. We had more than 150 photos in the first month, and of course it’s all good social-media publicity for the AGO and the Kids’ Gallery as well.”

Just Like Me will be on display until August. And then?  “If continuing research and feedback support the idea,” says Lorrie Ann, “this space will become a permanent Kids’ Gallery, with rotating exhibitions.”