In the fall of 1974, the AGO opened one of the most iconic Toronto spaces: the Henry Moore Sculpture Centre.  

The Henry Moore Sculpture Centre was created to house the generous number of works artist Henry Moore (1898 – 1986) donated to the AGO between 1971 – 1974, which included 101 sculptures, 57 drawings, and 150 prints. This gift marked the AGO as home to the largest public collection Moore’s work, a title the Gallery continues to hold. 

Incorporating natural light and reflective floors, Moore worked with Toronto architect John C. Parkin to design the 10,000 sq. foot exhibition space loved by visitors and staff alike. His vision for the Centre’s architecture was to make his works appear like they were floating on a pond. 

It was also in 1974 that Large Two Forms (1966-1969) was installed at the corner of McCaul and Dundas. The sculpture was moved to Grange Park in 2017, becoming a favourite spot for park patrons to take a nap or eat their lunch in.  

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Henry Moore Sculpture Centre, travel back in time through this selection of archival photographs documenting both the Centre’s opening and the ways visitors have engaged with it over the past five decades. Big thank you to Al Stanton-Hagan, AGO Archivist, for providing these photographs!  

Want to learn more about Henry Moore’s longtime relationship with the AGO? Join Adam Welch, Associate Curator, Modern Art; Lisa Ellis Conservator, Sculpture and Decorative Arts; and James Cooper, Henry Moore Foundation Sculpture Conservator in conversation on Wednesday, November 13 at 7 pm.  

(Please note: If you are an AGO member (with a membership card) – you can register online. Volunteers who are not members will need to book tickets in person (at the Welcome Desk) or by calling the Contact Centre at 416 979 6608).