History

Brief History

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 with "Robochorus", an installation by Michael Waterman.

In September 2006 ARTSPACE relocated once more to its present space: Unit 3, 378 Aylmer Street North. With floor to ceiling windows facing Aylmer Street, even passing Greyhound passengers get to experience the variety of contemporary art featured in our Main Gallery space. In addition, our Mudroom gallery and Project Space provide alternate venues for video works, and smaller exhibitions.