Three artistic escapes to bring a touch of colour and creativity to your life.
The National Gallery of Canada in the gloomy cold winter. (Photo credit: Laiyiady Lam)
On a quiet weekend afternoon, a cold breeze gently brushes against your face. You’ve just finished skating on the Rideau Canal. With untied shoelaces, you sink into a bench by the riverside. The skaters are laughing as they glide across the ice. You take in the soft winter sunlight. Time feels unhurried, and there’s no real rush to be anywhere.
You swing your legs idly, wondering what to do next. Heading back home? Or maybe find a cozy café to while away the afternoon?
Perhaps, it’s time to get yourself warm in a different way. How about stepping into an art gallery, where the thoughts of artists and the melodies of music bring a fresh touch to your day?
National Gallery of Canada
Walking through the lively streets of ByWard Market, you’ll spot a noticeable structure of glass and concrete. Its irregular glass dome casts the sunlight and reflections of Maman, the towering spider sculpture in front of the gallery.
The National Gallery of Canada was founded in 1880. It is one of Canada’s finest art institutions. It currently houses nearly 90,000 artworks and rare books.
Stepping inside feels like entering a world shaped by art. Their collection includes not only Canadian masterpieces but also art pieces from around the globe. Beyond its collections, the gallery actively brings art into people’s daily lives. From music performances and online workshops to social indoor walking programs, it continually seeks to make art more accessible and easier to engage for everyone.
Xuxi Liu, a level 4 TV broadcasting student at Algonquin College, said that the first time she visited, she felt comfort because it was so quiet and solemn.
“For me, this is a quiet place full of stories,” she said. “Each painting is a window into other people’s worlds, which allows me to reflect on myself.”
Ottawa Art Gallery
Leaving the ByWard Market. You will enter a neighbourhood where modern design combines with historic charm. You could see the Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG), a fashionable space dedicated to showcasing local creativity.
OAG was founded in 1988. Unlike the others, it focuses on Ottawa and its surrounding regions’ artistic voices. It doesn’t have traditional historical paintings and abstract or hard-to-decipher artworks. Instead, it highlights experimental and multicultural art. Such as the massive sculptures of planet Earth and the moon by British artist Luke Jerram.
Beyond exhibitions, OAG will occasionally organize various workshops, social events, and interactive activities. Every Thursday evening, the gallery is free to visit, offering a chance for everybody to experience local art up close.
And if you need a break, you can have a look at their mini creative market. It is a space filled with handcrafted works by local artists
Mackenzie Kirkey, a bank teller, recalled visiting his sister a few years ago when he unexpectedly came across the OAG.
“I could never understand some artworks that were filled with history or something you just don’t know what that is, but I remember I was shocked when I walked in,” he said.
Local Music Venues
If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to engage with the arts, live music is definitely one of the most vibrant experiences Ottawa’s nightlives has to offer.
At downtown, you can find from intimate jazz lounges to high-energy rock clubs or grand concert halls. For example, the 27 Club is a haven for rock and pop punk lovers. LIVE! On Elgin and Irene’s Pub offers cozy settings for jazz and country music performances. For people who appreciate classical music, the National Arts Centre beside the Rideau Canal is a must-visit. It often hosts world-class symphony performances.
Dim lighting, drums and guitars, and the smell of craft beer and local cuisine, it all creates a relaxing atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back evening or a night of exhilarating live performances, it could perfectly fit with everyone’s expectations.
For even more live music events, check out Eventbrite for the latest performances—you might just discover an unforgettable night.
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