Hello everyone,

I have to say, the quality of extraordinary content on view right now at the AGO is truly amazing. Having Warhol, Wong and Fragments of Epic Memory installed at the same time is literally an art feast for our public. I love it! Congratulations to Julian and the curatorial team. Congratulations also to the Marketing & Comms team – our messages are resonating with visitors, and attendance is strong.

A bit of good news to share – Moko Jumbie, the sculpture in Walker Court by Zak Ové commissioned by the AGO, has been acquired for our collection. This was made possible by lead support from David W. Binet, an AGO trustee, and generous support from Ray and Georgina Williams. A picture of the work is at the bottom this email.

At the AGO, we strive to provide a welcoming and safe environment. We are a public institution, and our work revolves around people. Right now, we need to help protect one other and our public from COVID. As I mentioned last week, Leadership Team is developing a vaccine policy to be announced in the coming days. Again, if you haven’t already been vaccinated, I encourage you to get your shots. You should anticipate that this will be a requirement for all staff and volunteers as well as our public.

Labour Day weekend is often filled with much excitement and a little bit of nerves for the back-to-school folks, both parents/guardians and children. I wish everyone well.

Take care and stay safe,

Stephan