The Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD) has been the alma mater of many prominent Canadian artists, including Arthur Lismer and A. Y. Jackson of the Group of Seven, as well as Michael Snow, Jack Bush, and Harold Town. Renowned as the largest and most prestigious art school in Canada, OCAD is located in Toronto and continues to serve as a beacon for those seeking excellence in art and design. Discover more about its history and impact on toronto1.one.
A Changing Name and Location
Since its establishment in 1876 by the Ontario Society of Artists, OCAD has undergone numerous name changes and relocations. Initially named the Ontario School of Art, it was based at 14 King Street West in downtown Toronto. In 1882, it came under the administration of the Ontario Department of Education and moved to the Normal School, now part of Toronto Metropolitan University. Five years later, the institution relocated near Queen and Yonge Streets, though this, too, was temporary.
In 1890, the Ontario Society of Artists resumed sponsorship, renaming it the Central Ontario School of Art and Industrial Design. The school operated on the upper floors of the Princess Theatre Building before being relocated to the Grange House, which now houses the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO).
In 1920, Arthur Lismer, a member of the Group of Seven, became vice principal after serving as director at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design. Under his leadership, the school officially became the Ontario College of Art (OCA) and settled at 100 McCaul Street in 1921. This location marked a milestone as Canada’s first building dedicated exclusively to art education. James Hervey MacDonald, another Group of Seven member, took over as principal in 1929.
The Main Campus
In 1979, OCAD expanded its campus to include the renovated Stewart Building on College Street. By 2000, the college secured funding to develop a major addition to the McCaul Street campus. Designed by renowned British architect Will Alsop, the Sharpe Centre for Design was completed in 2004. Its distinctive design—featuring a tabletop-like structure elevated on brightly coloured pencil-like pillars—embodies creativity and innovation.
OCAD’s student population grew steadily from 100 in 1911 to nearly 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students by 2016, reflecting its evolving prominence as an institution.
Notable Alumni and Curriculum
OCAD has nurtured world-renowned artists and designers, including members of the Group of Seven (Franklin Carmichael, A. J. Casson, A. Y. Jackson, Franz Johnston, Arthur Lismer, James Hervey MacDonald, and F. H. Varley) and other luminaries such as Michael Snow, Jack Bush, and Harold Town.
The university’s contemporary curriculum spans fine arts, design, and emerging technologies, including programs in drawing and painting, sculpture/installation, integrated media, environmental design, and digital media research. Since 2002, OCAD has awarded Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Design degrees, and in 2010, it achieved university status.
In 2005, media artist and theorist Sara Diamond became president of OCAD. She initiated significant changes, including elevating academic standards, integrating digital media into the curriculum, and steering the institution toward becoming a full-fledged university. Despite facing some resistance, her efforts modernized OCAD and solidified its reputation as a leader in arts education.
Upcoming Events at OCAD
As of September 25, 2024, OCAD has partnered with the European Union Delegation to Canada and the Metipso Portal International for two unique events during Toronto’s Nuit Blanche 2024, a free all-night celebration of contemporary art.
- Metipso Portal International: This initiative connects Toronto’s urban community with a rural community in Kenya, enabling live cultural exchanges at OCAD’s McCaul Street campus.
- Riparia: Lithuanian artist and director Emilija Škarnulytė will transform the repurposed Canada Malting Silos into a “water temple.” Featuring mythological goddesses that blend human and aquatic traits, the installation offers an immersive experience addressing ecological and social crises.
These events align with the Nuit Blanche theme “Bridging Distances,” emphasizing cross-cultural dialogue and environmental awareness.
The Ontario College of Art and Design has played a transformative role in shaping Canada’s artistic landscape. Its storied history, innovative curriculum, and commitment to fostering creativity make it a cornerstone of Toronto’s cultural identity.
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