GradEx 111 attracts nearly 50,000 visitors

OCAD University’s GradEx, the 111^th Annual Graduate Exhibition, attracted 48,000 visitors during the May 6 to 10 event, the biggest crowd in event history. GradEx is not only the largest free art and design exhibition in Toronto but also one of the largest and most-attended student art and design exhibitions in the world.
 

“As OCAD University is about to enter its 150^th anniversary, the growing popularity of GradEx signals our continued relevance as the centre of emerging creative talent in Canada,” says OCAD U President and Vice-Chancellor Ana Serrano. “Our students continue to innovate – whether it’s working in traditional mediums, digital and AI or most interestingly, the blending of both. OCAD U students showcased the incredible range of what art and design can do from thought-provoking artwork to complex system designs.”

In addition to showcasing the work of approximately 800 graduating art, design and digital maker students, the event also featured:

• An opening night celebration featuring an outdoor party which attracted 10,000 guests;
• A reception and tours for industry leaders, ranging from art and design to tech looking to hire the next generation of emerging talent;
• Pop-up shops, sales and an alumni maker marketplace; and
• A GradEx lounge with an OCAD U merch pop-up shop featuring a new Roots collaboration, a Dark Horse café pop-up and sponsor activations.
   

While the event is over, people can still continue to view student work on a supplemental online exhibition. Medal winners for each program were also announced at GradEx.

OCAD U is very thankful to GradEx 111 presenting sponsors Hullmark and BGO for their generous support.