Milk Glass Co. Gallery and Custom Framing

Note: Two months ago I was approached by Tim Shore, the editor at BlogTO, to write regular reviews on contemporary art galleries in Toronto. I submitted my first assignment, and after I was asked to make a few edits, I was told that my article would be posted. It never was. In fact, I never heard from Mr. Shore again. It was poor form on his part, but what could I do? I felt bad for the owners who were expecting to see their gallery featured on Toronto’s most popular blog. To make up for it, I’m posting it here. I hope you like it.

Milk Glass Co. Gallery is nestled between two unassuming buildings; if you’re not observant, you might walk right past it. When you do pause to take a peek, you’ll realize, like I did, that it’s a gem of a discovery at the forefront of a new artistic sensibility in the area.

Located in the always changing Dundas Street West and Ossington barrio, former office dwellers, Kelly Wray and Char Da Silva, have created an accessible space that caters to music, fashion, and visual art aficionados. In fact, one of their specialties is custom framing, offering quality selections for novice artists to showcase their artwork.

The interior space – once a law office — is open and inviting, with brightly painted walls that perfectly accentuate and compliment the artwork. If you’re thirsty, try the iced-coffee, or ask Kelly and Char what else is available, they don’t mind! Perhaps they’ll even whip up a concoction for you. What’s available is a casual, relaxing environment that everyone is welcome to explore. What could be better?

Milk Glass Co. Gallery officially opened this past June, and when I first stopped by one humid and sticky weekday afternoon I was immediately struck with its refreshing and eclectic flavour. There’s a lot to keep you focused, and entertained; Kelly and Char have a finite attention to detail, whether it be the artwork framing the walls, the intricate furniture choices, or the clothing that lines each rack, you cannot ignore this place.

Exhibitions change each month, with local and international artists showcasing their work, and the space can be booked for private events. The closing reception of Michael Toke’s “Sex, Physics and the Evolution of Man” series occurred last week and Silent Shout will present her first visual arts gallery titled “Space Diamonds Are Real”.

What I found most impressive during my conversation with Char and Kelly is how they are attempting to reinvent the way that the community views art. With a focus on accessibility they offer a safe haven for those who are distrusting and intimidated by the rigidity of traditional art galleries.

Recently, they’ve started partnering with local galleries in the neighbourhood, encouraging art enthusiasts to gallery hop. If a visit during a weeknight is any indication, it’s working, as more people are flocking to the street to learn what all the fuss is about.

With Dundas Street West under constant gentrification (condos and lofts are quickly rising) it’s only a matter of time before Mill Glass Co. Gallery is flooded with first-time home owners requesting custom framing and stunning art to add to their new décor.

Milk Glass Co. Gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday between 1 pm And 7 pm but usually stays open later as locals stop by to peruse the selections and chat with fellow art lovers. They’re located at 1247 Dundas Street West.