Leak in AGAs 5000 Artworks Storage

Back in December, a major water leak was caused in the gallery’s in-house art collection storage room. A hard rainfall left water streaming in from multiple points of a single wall. Because of the winter freeze, there was no way to evaluate the damage or begin repairs. 

Unfortunately, this has taken a huge toll on gallery operations.  The leak has caused cancellations of exhibitions and programming. 

Now that the weather has warmed, we are beginning emergency repairs of the wall.

Clearly, a water leak is a critical problem for an art gallery; our collection storage houses 5000 pieces of national and international significance, notably including pieces by the iconic Group of Seven, Ken Danby, Emily Carr, Jack Bush, Rita Letendre, and Norval Morisseau - to name just a few.

We are so lucky to have such a beautiful and important collection here in Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma. It is crucial for us to immediately repair our storage for the future safety and preservation of these artworks and to continue gallery operations as usual.

Now, we ask for your generosity. 

It is so important for us to preserve these beautiful and meaningful artworks for future generations. We are so grateful for your support in helping us protect this community treasure. 

Any size donation is helpful and very much appreciated.

If you wish to receive a tax receipt for your donation over 20 dollars, please email [email redacted] or call 705-949-9067.

Donations are also being accepted in person at the Art Gallery of Algoma (10 East St, Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 3C3).

For questions about recognition opportunities, contact [email redacted].


Art Details: “The Humber Floats”. 1912. J.E.H. MacDonald (British Canadian 1873-1932). Collection of the Art Gallery of Algoma; Acquired with funds from the Ontario Ministry of Culture and Communication and Wintario.