Founded in 1974 by a group of dedicated local artists, ARTSPACE differs from many of the artist-run centres that formed in this early period. ARTSPACE was established and sustained by a membership spread amongst smaller urban centres, rural areas and townships. This unique cultural milieu has provided for several developed partnerships with major institutions like Trent University. The organization received its non-profit, incorporated, charitable status in July 1977. Over the past 35 years, ARTSPACE has played a profound role in the development of contemporary Canadian art; numerous prominent artists presented their work for the first time at Artspace.
On July 15th, 2004 the ARTSPACE gallery site (its sixth in Peterborough) , which housed its databases, operating records and 31 years of archives, was destroyed by floodwaters that completely submerged the space in water and toxic waste. Following a successful insurance claim process and several short moves, ARTSPACE re-opened its doors at a new shared gallery site, 378 Aylmer Street North, on February 18, 2005.
In September 2006 ARTSPACE relocated once more to its present location. With an expanse of floor to ceiling windows on Aylmer Street, passers-by can experience the variety of contemporary art installed in our Main Gallery space. In addition, our two other presentation spaces, the Mudroom and Project Room, provide venues for video works, smaller pieces, and workshops.
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