Gallery Visits Toronto

October ART Crawl: Tour 3 top West End private galleries/spaces ($10 per person)

We will continue with our monthly **Art Crawls**! ***Please read everything over first.*** \*\*\*Our only ART Crawl in October will be on Saturday 10th (12:30pm-2:30pm) This is the Saturday of **Thanksgiving** long weekend. Note: the **12:30pm START**-time. 16 people/members each time. **$10 per person.** **\*\*\*Sent via e-transfer when you signup/rsvp.** **I'm not able to HOLD space for you.** ***--We will visit 3 different*** (downtown/west end/east end) galleries each month **(with short walks between each one)** Each month will be different galleries and/or artist-run centres. \*\*We'll meet the Gallery owners/artists/directors--who will lead us in tours and conversation at each stop. NO weather cancellations---**we will carry on!** NO cancellations/no refunds or any [re-scheduling](http://re-scheduling...if/) if you cannot make it. \-\-\-Check your calendars and PLAN ahead if you can join us\-\-and please arrive on time\. We're not able to wait for you\. Sorry\. Are you Interested in ART/artists--**and learning/visiting the exceptional local galleries we have in Toronto? With other MEETUP members** Saturday October 10th ***(12:30pm-2:30pm)*** Once I have 16 **confirmations** from Meetup members (you)--I will email you the start location of our ART Crawl!! Next week. **Our first stop**. Bloor/Lansdowne (we then head WEST) If interested, please email me $10. Include your first name only, and email address for a reply. **I will then confirm you.** And will firm up our itinerary with you in a few days. See you on Saturday October 10th--if you're confirmed--watch for an email directly from me!! ***We will do this again in November*** and ongoing all Winter---as we find some interesting spaces and exhibitions. Each month will be posted separately. **October 2026 is posted now.** You can email me directly here: torontoisculture@gmail,com Greg Thanks (Please understand I have NO space for any guests you may wish to bring with you. I am limited in group size based on the GALLERY instructions)

Visionary Public Speaking Club - Practice Your Public Speaking Skills With Us

Are you looking to enhance your public speaking skills and boost your confidence? If so, then join us for an exciting Public Speaking meeting! Get inspired by one of the prepared speeches, or be brave and participate in our fun table topics. The meetings at our club provide a save space for you to practice speaking in front of others, receive constructive feedback, and develop your public speaking skills. We believe that everyone can learn how to become a great speaker and we welcome everyone who want to join us in person for one of our meetings and improve their public speaking skills. Don't miss out on this chance to take your public speaking skills to the next level and meet other like-minded individuals. Join us at our next meeting and start building your confidence and leadership skills today! Please reach out to the Event Host if you have any questions. This event is not hosted by or sponsored by the Toronto Public Library

Koerner Hall: Vieux Farka Touré (15% off promo)

We will start off the 26/27 Koerner Hall concert season, with a performance by Vieux Farka Touré (from Mali), and opening for him is Melat Mengesha (from Ethiopia) (And we have our eyes on other concerts during the season!) Also we have a 15% off ticket promo!! ***Ticket link is below*--($50-$80)** Known worldwide for his electrifying live shows, Vieux Farka Touré’s virtuosic guitar work blends Malian blues, rock, and soul. Winner of Ethiopian Idol Melat Mengesha opens the show. Often referred to as “The Hendrix of the Sahara,” **Vieux Farka Touré** is the son of legendary Malian guitarist Ali Farka Touré, who died in 2006. His live performances are highly energized, and Vieux is known for dazzling crowds with his speed and dexterity on the guitar, as well as his palpable charisma and luminous smile, both of which captivate audiences despite any language barriers (though Vieux does speak eight languages!). Hailing from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, now based in Toronto, \*\*Melat Mengesha’\*\*s music features contemporary, folk, and Ethio-jazz roots sounds. Two major influences in her artistic expression are the legendary Ethiopian singers Gigi (Ejigayehu Shibabaw) and Aster Aweke. A major turning point came in 2015, when Melat won the first season of Balageru (Ethiopian Idol). That breakthrough opened the door to a variety of showcases and performances, from intimate stages to large-scale concerts, allowing her to tour across her hometown and beyond. **TICKET LINK** here: **PROMO CODE**: ISCULTURE15 https://www.rcmusic.com/concert/vieux-farka-toure-449801 Note: the PROMO code works for all pricing--**EXCEPT** the PREMIUM/purple seats

Sketching Hangout... New Location

Hi everyone! We're doing an afternoon impromptu hangout at CIBC food court. **First time meeting us and still not sure about the vibe?** Check out photos from **[past in-person events of 2025](https://www.meetup.com/artsrecto/photos/36185293/)** ***Bring your own art supplies*** (mainly dry medium or small watercolour set), and if you feel like it, order a drink and snacks. **Where to meet exactly?** Looking forward to meeting you all :) =========================== **Support This Group 🥰🤩** We hope you're enjoying the Arts & Rec events! If you'd like to give support, please consider making a small Ko-fi donation of $5-10 USD at [https://www.ko-fi.com/artsnrectoronto](https://www.ko-fi.com/artsnrectoronto.) . This helps cover meetup and miscellaneous expenses with hosting events! For more inquiries, please PM me for more info! Thank you all so much!

Impressionist Afternoon Tea + 3 Exhibits at the AGO

On **Sunday, October 18th**, join me for an **Impressionist Afternoon Tea in the Norma Ridley Members’ Lounge to celebrate the connection between art, atmosphere and indulgence.** Inspired by the luminous colours and expressive brushstrokes of *[Impressionist Revolution: Monet to Matisse from the Dallas Museum of Art](https://ago.ca/exhibitions/impressionist-revolution-monet-matisse-dallas-museum-art)* we saw last month, this seasonal Afternoon Tea offers an elegant, leisurely escape into art, conversation and thoughtfully crafted flavours that reflect the beauty and softness of this exhibit. Delicate savoury selections and whimsical pastries are designed to evoke sunlit gardens, countryside picnics and the romance of Impressionism. Since Afternoon Tea includes free admission to the Gallery, we will see more Impressionism art that was not part of our August visit - **Reality & Reverie: Canadian and European Painting Beyond Impressionism**, **Steam: Impressionist Painting Across the Atlantic**, and a new exhibit that will open the day before - **In Plain Sight: Highlights from the AGO’s Collection of Historic Picture Frames**. **I** **have booked a table for Sunday October 18th at 2:30pm, and can add members to it.** **COST** Adult: $80 + taxes + gratuity = $104.80 Meetup Organizer Fee: $5 **SIGNING-UP** * **RSVP Yes** **\- everyone goes on the waitlist until confirmed\.** * **I will reach out to provide my email address for the etransfer of $109.80 and I will call in to add you to our table. Once I receive confirmation, I will inform you and move you to attending.** * There are no refunds. A reminder will be sent the day before with my cell and reminder details where to meet and when. RSVPs close 3 days prior and the Waitlist will be removed at that time. Cancellations will result in a No Show and impact future attendance. **MEETUP TIME** **Meet me at: 1:45pm inside the entrance to the right side of the AGO at 317 Dundas St. W. We will then scan our tickets and head over to the exhibits, prior to Tea.** **Note: We must enter the AGO together for our tea reservation.** **EXHIBITS** **Reality & Reverie: Canadian and European Painting Beyond Impressionism** (Level 1 Gallery 127) **Steam: Impressionist Painting Across the Atlantic** (Level 1 Gallery 116) **Highlights from the AGO’s Collection of Historic Picture Frames** (Level 1 Gallery 115) **Meet me for Afternoon Tea: at 2:30pm in front of the** **Norma Ridley Members’ Lounge (Level 1)** (Please do not go to our table before I get there) Enjoy and please post your comments in the Event after.

Alliance Francaise: Duo Perse-Inca ($20)

We'll kick off our season with **Alliance Francaise**--with a wonderful concert on a Saturday night!! We've been very fortunate to see **Duo Perse-Inca** 2X before. Once in Toronto. Once in Montreal. Sounds from Iran, mixed with sounds from Peru. Instruments and artists--they communicate with each other so well! ***Ticket link is below***: $20 (general admission) We love the **Alliance Francaise** space (music, theatre, film, art) **A World Music Concert--** **Duo Perse-Inca returns** to Alliance Française Toronto nearly four years after their acclaimed Spadina Theatre performance. **Showan Tavakol and Federico Tarazona - rooted respectively in the musical traditions of Iran and Peru** \- have built a repertoire that moves seamlessly between improvisation and co\-composition\, setting the Iranian kamancheh and the Andean charango in genuine dialogue\. Their album *Echoes of the Mountains* charts a journey across continents and through the ages, delivered with mastery and warmth. **More info and sounds:** https://centredesmusiciensdumonde.com/en/portfolio/duo-perse-inca_en/ **TICKET link for September 26th**--(will SELL-OUT) https://www.alliance-francaise.ca/en/art/cultural-season/concerts/311-duo-perse-inca

Lingerie/Fashion Implied/Fine Art - with Riel Life

ARC Ensemble: Artists of the Royal Conservatory ($40)

The **ARC Ensemble** and students of the **Glenn Gould School** explore ***Armenian works composed*** before the breakup of the Soviet Union and Armenian independence – captivating and evocative music unknown in the West. Included on the program are arrangements of Armenian folksongs for string quartet, a compelling Cello Sonata by Avet Terteryan, and seductive piano miniatures by Alexander Spendiarian and Arno Babadjanian. **Ticket link is below**\-\-\-and\-\-\-ANY seat is a great seat\. https://bit.ly/ARCConcertOct4 The multiple Grammy Award nominated ARC Ensemble comprises the senior faculty of The Royal Conservatory's Glenn Gould School, with special guests drawn from the organization's most accomplished students and alumni. **It is among Canada's most distinguished cultural ambassadors** with recent appearances in Los Angeles, New York and London’s Wigmore Hall. The research and recovery of music suppressed and marginalized under the 20th century's repressive regimes remains its focus and a growing number of works have now rejoined the repertoire. “As always with this ensemble, performances could hardly be bettered in terms of execution and commitment.” (*Gramophone*) **ARC Ensemble-** **(Artists of The Royal Conservatory)** **Erika Raum**, violin **Marie Bérard**, violin **Steven Dann**, viola **Thomas Wiebe**, cello **Kevin Ahfat**, piano with students of **The Glenn Gould School-** **Avery Tracy**, violin **Gina Lanzrein**, violin **Shyler Macaggi**, viola **Mira Kardan**, cello **TICKET Link here:** https://www.rcmusic.com/concert/arc-ensemble-453001?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=453001_ARCconcert&utm_content=arts_events_listing

Now For Something Arty!

**Meetup: St. Mathews Clubhouse; 450 Broadview Ave.** So while we have a day event on the 27th, if you have an arty side, continue your day by joining me at St. Mathew's Clubhouse for an arty experience. While many of you know I am a writer by trade, I am also a painter. I'm just an arty girl! I have put together an Art Collective with 6 artists along with myself to showcase and of course sell our work but also enjoy Art, Wine & Inspiration — Come Create With Us! 🍷 Join us for a free collective art show celebrating creativity, connection and the joy of making art. And why just look at art when you can explore your own creativity too? Come discover what inspires you, try something new, and let your imagination wander. ✨ Art to explore. 🍷 Wine to enjoy; nibbles to share. 🥂 Hear from the.artists! 🎨 Creativity to discover. 💫 And best of all — it’s FREE

Sunday's Best [AGO]

Algonquin Park – Fall Photo Workshop

COST: $250 + HST PAYMENT: [https://buytickets.at/torontotraveloutdoorphotography/2432982](https://buytickets.at/torontotraveloutdoorphotography/2432982) TIME: 12pm - 4pm LOCATION: We'll meet on the west side of Algonquin Park. Exact location and meeting spot will be sent to participants. Spend a day in Algonquin Park at the most magical time of year — when the maples turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. This 1/2 day photo workshop is all about slowing down and learning how to capture the beauty of fall in a way that feels true to your style. This is a hands-on intensive one-on-one workshop where I’ll share practical tips on composition, working with natural light, and getting the most out of your gear — whether you’re shooting with a DSLR, mirrorless, or even just your phone. The pace is relaxed, with plenty of time to ask questions, try new techniques, and of course, make some great photos. By the end of the day, you’ll head home with fresh inspiration, new skills, and a collection of images that capture the spirit of Algonquin in autumn. **What’s included:** * Instruction on composition, exposure, and working with natural light * Individual feedback tailored to your goals * Access to some of the park’s best locations for fall colours * limited to 6 participants **What to bring:** * Your camera and favourite lenses * Tripod. I have extra you can borrow if you need * Lunch, snacks, and water * Comfortable footwear and layered clothing for the outdoors It’s a day out surrounded by peak fall colours and a chance to connect with nature, photography, and a group of like-minded creatives.

TOPHATs Nuit Blanche, a Blue Moon and a Beer Landing

Join Lawrence, your top hatted host, for an evening of Nuit Blanche art and Hops and Happy Hour treats. Temperature are to be around 10 C, so layer up as it will be cooler by the lake. We will meet-up at Blue Moon Brewery at 7 pm for a refreshing Belgian brew. https://www.bluemooncanada.ca/en-CA/beers 3 Tecumseth St At 7:30 pmish, we will begin our Nuit Blanche adventure visiting the two exhibits in the STACKT Market “Magnetic Mother” by Micki-Lee Smith, Zakriya Bashir-Hill , Pratap Mathews #30 Remember \| Imagine by Hajar Moradi \#29 Then we will cross the Bathurst Street bridge, where you can get a scenic shot of our downtown as we head towards the lake. The Bentway - Social Fabric: A Community Textile Activation by SHEEEP: Reza Nik, Sam Cruxton, Jocelyn Hernandez #64 followed by The Bentway - A Persistent Crossing by Stanzie Tooth #65 Then we will walk to Canoe Landing to see... Kilim by Roda Medhat #53 Night Waves by CityPlace and Fort York BIA Farsh by Roda Medhat #54 Garrison Creek by Brian Leclerc #31 At 9 pmish is Happy Hour at Hunters Landing where we will rest, refresh before continuing on our adventure. https://www.thelandinggroup.ca/en/menu/hunters/happy-hour.html 82 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 4A6 Back down Bathurst to the lakeside to see OCAD University and the Delegation of the European Union to Canada - “The Light” and “Melting Temporalities” by Paul Murnaghan, Claire Brunet, Johnny Ranger #66 Then over to one of my favourite summertime locations, the Toronto Music Garden to view. Ascension by Ilene Sova #32 Walking East along the waterfront we will arrive at The Grandmother Project by Peter Dillman #33 Steps away is the Harbourfront Centre - Dance Stoops by Daily tous les jours #79 Our final stop is at Love Park parol-parolan by HOT A!R ATEL!ER Here's the link to all the Nuit Blanche 2026 activities. https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/nuitblanche/all-art-projects/