Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (AGGV) | Victoria

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (AGGV) is one of Victoria’s premier cultural institutions, renowned for its diverse and extensive art collection, historical significance, and educational initiatives. Located in the heart of the city, it serves as both a museum and an active cultural space that engages the community and visitors with a variety of art exhibitions, programs, and events.

History of the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

The AGGV has a rich history that dates back to 1946 when it was initially established as the Little Centre. The museum, originally intended to serve as a smaller exhibition space, quickly grew in stature and became an important hub for arts in the region. The gallery’s evolution into a major institution was largely facilitated by the donation of the Spencer Mansion in 1951 by Sarah Spencer, which provided the gallery with a permanent home.

Spencer Mansion: This Victorian-era mansion, built in 1889, is a significant historical and architectural landmark. Designed by prominent architect William Ridgeway Wilson, the mansion’s grand and intricate design is a fine example of Victorian architecture. The AGGV occupied this historic building and later expanded its exhibition space with new galleries in the 1950s and 1970s.

Growth and Development: Over the years, the AGGV has grown significantly in terms of both its collection and its physical space. The museum is now located in two interconnected buildings—the original Spencer Mansion and the modern Exhibition Galleries. These additions were made in response to the growing demand for exhibition space as the gallery’s collection expanded.

The Art Collection

The AGGV boasts one of the largest public art collections in British Columbia, with over 20,000 works of art. Its collection is diverse, representing both historical and contemporary art, with significant strengths in Asian art, Canadian and Indigenous art, and contemporary art.

Asian Art Collection: The AGGV is particularly renowned for its Asian art collection, which is one of the largest in Canada. With over 8,000 pieces, this collection includes Chinese, Japanese, and Korean art, as well as works from other parts of East Asia. The collection spans multiple centuries and includes paintings, ceramics, textiles, and sculptures. The AGGV's Asian art collection is considered the second most significant in Canada, after the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto.

Canadian and Indigenous Art: The gallery holds an impressive array of Canadian and Indigenous art that chronicles the development of the nation’s artistic identity. Works by notable Canadian artists, including those from the Group of Seven, are featured alongside contemporary pieces that reflect the evolving nature of Canadian art.

Contemporary Art: The AGGV also has a strong collection of contemporary art, reflecting both global and local artistic movements. Contemporary exhibitions at the AGGV often feature works that engage with current themes, such as social issues, environmental concerns, and personal identity. The gallery regularly hosts contemporary artists, both emerging and established, contributing to Victoria’s dynamic art scene.

Exhibitions and Programs

The AGGV offers a dynamic array of rotating exhibitions and ongoing educational programs designed to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds. These exhibitions often include works from the gallery’s permanent collection as well as traveling exhibitions from national and international artists.

Current Exhibitions: As of April 2025, the AGGV is hosting several noteworthy exhibitions, including:

“From Warhol to Banksy”: This exhibit explores the impact of Pop Art and street art, featuring works by iconic artists such as Andy Warhol and Banksy. The exhibition delves into the evolution of art in the 20th and 21st centuries, highlighting the intersection of popular culture and fine art.

“From Balzar to Hunt”: This exhibition showcases Canadian artists, focusing on their diverse techniques and creative approaches. The exhibit celebrates the breadth of Canadian art history, from early 20th-century works to contemporary pieces.

“Beauty of Mending”: This exhibition explores the concept of repair and restoration in art, focusing on how artists have used the act of mending and transforming damaged objects to create new meaning and beauty.

Educational Programs: The gallery offers a wide range of educational initiatives aimed at engaging the community and fostering a deeper understanding of the visual arts. These include:

Workshops and Classes: The AGGV hosts art workshops for various age groups, including children, teens, and adults. These programs offer hands-on experiences with different art forms, including painting, sculpture, and digital art.

School Programs: The gallery provides educational programs designed for school groups, offering interactive tours, hands-on activities, and classroom resources for teachers to engage students in the arts.

Lectures and Artist Talks: Regularly scheduled talks and discussions with artists, curators, and scholars provide a deeper understanding of the artworks on display and the creative process behind them.

Visitor Information

Location: The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is located at 1040 Moss Street in Victoria, British Columbia. The gallery is easily accessible by car, bus, and walking, making it a convenient stop for visitors to the city.

Opening Hours:

Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Thursday: Extended hours until 9:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Closed on Mondays (except during special events or holidays).

Admission: The AGGV offers free admission on the first Saturday of every month and Thursday evenings (from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM), sponsored by TD. General admission fees apply outside of these times. Special rates may apply for seniors, students, and groups.

The Building and Architecture

The Spencer Mansion is a key feature of the Art Gallery’s architectural identity. As a designated heritage building, it stands as a striking example of Victorian architecture. Its high ceilings, intricate moldings, and large windows allow visitors to experience art in a historic context, making the gallery’s exhibitions feel both contemporary and timeless.

The Exhibition Galleries, added in the latter half of the 20th century, offer more modern spaces that are adaptable to a variety of exhibition formats, including large-scale installations, sculptures, and multimedia works.

Notable Events and Cultural Impact

The AGGV also plays an important role in the local cultural scene by hosting special events, such as fundraisers, galas, and community nights. The gallery is a gathering place for artists, scholars, art lovers, and the general public, contributing to Victoria’s dynamic cultural fabric.

In addition to showcasing art, the gallery often serves as a platform for discussions on important social issues, with exhibitions and programs that address topics such as identity, migration, colonialism, and environmental sustainability. This commitment to engaging with contemporary issues makes the AGGV not only a museum but also a place of learning and conversation.

Conclusion

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is a cultural gem in Victoria, BC, offering visitors a rich experience that spans centuries of art history, from the traditional to the contemporary. Its impressive collection, dynamic exhibitions, educational initiatives, and the beauty of its historical mansion make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the arts. Whether you're exploring its historic galleries, attending a workshop, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the garden, the AGGV provides an enriching cultural experience for all.