The Volunteer Executive Committee (VEC) is pleased to announce the recipient of this year’s Volunteer Endowment Trust (VET) grant: Brian Jungen: Friendship Centre exhibition, running June 20 – August 24, 2019.

Earlier this year, the AGO’s Development department presented the Volunteer Executive with 4 potential recipients.  The VEC selected the Jungen show as supporting  both an outstanding Canadian artist and the AGO’s strategic goal of becoming a leader in contemporary art.

Established in 2001, the VET allows Volunteers a means of advancing art-related programs, including purchase of artworks, and provides recognition for the contributions of Volunteers. Approximately $50,000 is available each year to support a gallery program.

Brian Jungen: Friendship Centre is a mid-career survey that spans the career of this extraordinary artist. It features many of Jungen’s iconic sculptures and wall works, his hunting film made with fellow artist Duane Linklater, as well as archival objects – photographs, materials, unrealized works and research pictures. This immersive exhibition experience centres on places of communal learning (such as Friendship Centres and school gyms) and provokes visitors to understand and consider issues and an approach to sculpture through Jungen’s lens.

VET support will help cover: fees, insurance, and shipping; installation; interpretative materials and public programs; plus marketing and promotion.  Recognition of AGO volunteers will include the exhibition title wall and on-site signage; marketing and publicity materials; and the annual Donor Wall.  AGO Volunteers will also enjoy an exclusive talk and tour with an AGO curator.

Many thanks to the Development department for this great opportunity. We look forward to a wonderful show!