On Wednesday, July 30, the AGO will unveil Moments Contained (2023), a newly acquisitioned sculpture by internationally renowned artist Thomas J Price. This sculpture will be installed near Brian Jungen’s Couch Monster: Sadzěʔ yaaghęhch’ill (2022), on the corner of McCaul Street and Dundas Street West.
On Monday, July 14, preparations for the installation will begin. Read below to learn more about this sculpture and important installation dates for staff and volunteers.
About Moments Contained
Moments Contained is the first public artwork acquired by the AGO’s Department of Arts of Global Africa and the Diaspora. The acquisition and presentation of Moments Contained was made possible by the generous contributions of a group of donors, the majority of whom are from Toronto’s Black and Caribbean communities. Lead support for the acquisition was from an anonymous donor, with significant support from David W. Binet and the Haynes-Connell Foundation.
In 2021, volunteers might recall the AGO exhibited Price’s sculpture Within the Folds (Dialogue 1) (2020). It stood on the site currently held by Brian Jungen’s Couch Monster: Sadzěʔ yaaghęhch’ill (2022).
Standing 2.7 meters tall and made of lustrous black bronze, Moments Contained depicts a contemplative young Black woman, dressed in casual wear. Feet planted on the sidewalk, her demeanour is serene, and she appears outwardly confident, but the hands she hides in her pockets are visibly clenched, suggesting a tension between her inner thoughts and outward expression.
More Information About Moments Contained
- Read here for more on this acquisition.
- To learn more about Price and his work, visit his website.
- Watch this video where Price speaks about this sculpture in his own words.
Unveiling Events on Wednesday, July 30
Staff and volunteers are invited to attend the public unveiling of the sculpture on Wednesday, July 30 at 6:30 pm, featuring remarks by Price and a special performance by Toronto musician Shakura S’Aida, as well as A Gospel Chorale led by Kiara Picart.
After the unveiling, Price will join Julie Crooks, Curator, Arts of Global Africa and the Diaspora for a ticketed talk in Baillie Court. To purchase tickets for the talk, click here. Volunteers receive members’ pricing for talks – purchase a ticket onsite at the Welcome Desk (make sure to show your volunteer badge) or call in to get the discount (416 979 6608).
Installation Timeline
Beginning Monday, July 14: Preparation for Installation Day
- A safety fence will be installed around the work zone.
- A pathway to the Gallery’s main entrance will be maintained for staff, volunteers, and visitors.
Monday, July 28: Installation Day
- Heavy-duty equipment will be in use to install the sculpture.
- Staff and volunteers are asked to please avoid the area if possible. Please use the South Entrance to enter and exit the Gallery when possible.
- A selection of bike racks by Jackman Hall will be closed off due to their proximity to the installation site. As an alternative, staff can use the bike racks located on Beverley Street near Grange Park.