Downtown Oshawa has more to offer than just restaurants, shops, and parks. The centre of the city also happens to be a creative and historical region with plenty of landmarks, as well as the best and biggest art galleries just minutes away.

Among these galleries, The Robert McLaughlin Gallery stands out. Named after Colonel Robert Samuel McLaughlin, a historical figure in the Canadian automotive industry, it is today the largest public art gallery in the Durham Region.

The 36,000-square-foot building where the current RMG resides was designed by Canadian architect Arthur Erickson. This is an outstanding and monumental building, with 35-foot-high ceilings. The extensive use of natural light through large windows and skylights creates an atmosphere of ascension.

The gallery holds over 4,700 artworks, including works by Painters Eleven, a Canadian abstract art group, and the Thomas Bouckley Photo Collection. The rotating exhibitions also allow the gallery to create unique displays throughout the year.

The Robert McLaughlin Gallery is more than just a regular “museum visit”. Take their Backyard, for example, where outdoor exhibitions take place. It is a thoughtfully designed community space, made for art, fun, and reflection.

You should definitely pay a visit to this place. It’s only a 7-minute walk, and the experience will take your breath away.