OCAD University took on a different kind of glow on Wednesday, May 27, as more than 300 artists and designers, collectors, industry leaders and supporters attended the second annual OCAD U Gala. Throughout the evening, spaces were activated with projections, installations and immersive works created by OCAD U alums. The event highlighted the range of creative practices within the University’s community, and the role OCAD U artists and designers continue to play in shaping the cultural and visual life of Toronto and beyond.
Artworks by Cell Driver, Golnoush Mir Salari, Simone Northey, Jordan Shaw, and Sohyun Yoon introduced moments of surprise and discovery between auction viewing, dinner and conversation, while ceramic mid-fired porcelain centrepieces created by alum artist Andria Keen added a sculptural presence to the Great Hall. The live auction featured works by OCAD U alums across painting, sculpture, photography and design, drawing enthusiastic bidding and becoming one of the evening's most talked-about moments. Following the main program, the Gala After Party brought a new burst of energy with a live DJ set, a packed dance floor and a crowd that stayed well into the night.
The highly anticipated event raised $420,000 in support of bursaries. Proceeds will help create opportunities for students to pursue their studies, expand their creative practice and explore new ways of engaging with the world through art and design.
“It was remarkable to see so many friends of OCAD U gathered on this night," said Ana Serrano, president and vice-chancellor of OCAD University. "The Gala offers an immersive glimpse into the heart of our university and gives guests a real sense of the creativity and impact our students bring into the world. We're deeply grateful to everyone who joined us and to those who continue to champion art, design, and the talented students of OCAD U.”
“Being part of this event for a second year has been incredibly rewarding,” said Gala Co‑Chairs Amy Burstyn‑Fritz and Jeff Hull. “The installations and digital works completely changed the feeling of the space in striking ways and showcased the range of creativity coming out of OCAD U’s alumni community. Seeing so many people rally behind emerging artists and designers is truly inspiring and reminds us of the impact this support has.”
As OCAD U prepares to mark its 150th anniversary this fall, the Gala underscored the momentum carrying the University into this milestone year.
OCAD U extends sincere thanks to the sponsors, Gala Committee, participating artists, donors, volunteers and community partners whose support made the evening possible. This year’s sponsors included Presenting Sponsor The Darcy; After Party Sponsor Forma by Great Gulf, Dream and Westdale; Auction Sponsor Birch Hill Equity Partners; VIP Reception Sponsor Forum; Supporting Sponsors Nancy McCain & Bill Morneau and Hatch Ltd.; Auction Lot Sponsor Holt Renfrew; and In-Kind Sponsors Artam Design Inc., Element Event Solutions, Focal Point, Happy Pops, National Show Systems, Oliver & Bonacini Catering and Superframe.
