During our visits to Ottawa we often passed by the impressive National Gallery of Art. Monika was often tour guide But only when the tourism authority informed us travel bloggers invited us to visit the gallery. The modern glass and granite architecture immediately caught our attention. But we were particularly curious to see what treasures were hidden inside. The Canadian art on display here particularly caught our interest. We wondered how artists capture the country's impressive landscape and culture in their works.
When we finally got to the Winterlude in Ottawa It was the perfect opportunity to finally explore the National Gallery from the inside. Winter was raging outside, and inside the works of art were waiting to be discovered. The gallery was an ideal refuge from the freezing temperatures. We were not only able to experience the fascinating art of Canada, but also admire the architecture of the gallery from the inside.
The National Gallery of Art and its Significance
Actually, we wanted to see the paintings of the Group of Seven in the National Gallery of Art in Ottawa. Of course we did, but we didn't expect that the architecture of the art museum would impress us any more.
The architecture of Moshe Safdie
Moshe Safdie's architecture turns the National Gallery into an architectural work of art that is a source of amazement. From the outside, with its glass structure, it is somewhat reminiscent of the buildings in the government district: the Parliament or the Mint. This is entirely intentional, as a connection to the National Gallery of Art should be established.
More information about Moshe Safdie and his architecture:
Interiors of the National Gallery of Art in Ottawa
Inside, however, the ramp through which you reach the Great Hall under the glass structure reminds me more of a cathedral from the Gothic period, with its columns that irresistibly lead the eye upwards. The glass fronts of the building do the rest to give this part of the building a bright ambience. Despite modern building materials such as concrete and glass, the entrance to the large hall looks like a cathedral.
If you stand under the glass structure of the large hall, the awnings that cover the glass panels provide shade. When the sun shines outside, they look like a flower that opens its leaves above the viewer. The windows look out over the Parliament building, the Ottawa River and the hills of Gatineau. Opposite the entrance it is only steps to the Byward Market.
Packing tips for a city trip to Ottawa Ontario
- Comfortable shoes, because you will definitely be walking a lot in Ottawa.
- A City backpack, in which you can store everything you need for a day tour through the city, for example.
- I also always use it for fine dining in one of the city's restaurants Pumps mit.
- A Rain jacket not only protects against rain, but also against wind and cool temperatures.
During our tour of the National Gallery of Art, we repeatedly come across interior rooms where visitors can find bright, peaceful places. Here, for example, they can reflect on the masterpieces of art in their minds. In the Water Court, on the other hand, a pond invites you to relax. The Garden Court is planted with red flowers. However, the type of plants in this part of the museum varies with the season, as we learn. Finally, in a third room there is an art installation by an artist from British Columbia, whose sculptures commemorate the fate of the Indian tribes.
The Rideau Street Chapel at the National Gallery of Art
The architecture of the Rideau Street Chapel from the Gothic Revival looks completely different. This was completely removed and rebuilt in the original in the National Gallery of Art. The ends of the columns that adorn the ceiling of the chapel look like palm leaves. Elements of Art Nouveau architecture give this room its character.
The sanctuary with its decorative wall made of gold and wood is also worth seeing. The Rideau Chapel was once located in the Convent of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart. This is a girls school run by nuns. The chapel is the only known 19th-century chapel to have an interior with a neo-Gothic fan-shaped roof supported by iron columns. In 1972 this jewel of Canadian architecture was saved from demolition and finally reconstructed in the National Gallery of Art from 1984 to 1988. It is also one of only two architectural exhibits in all of North America.
The National Gallery of Art in Ottawa is more than an art museum
We quickly realized that the National Gallery in Ottawa is more than an art museum. The building's architecture makes it a must-see attraction in its own right when visiting Ottawa. This forms a setting for the masterpieces of Canadian painters and artists from all over the world.
National Gallery of Canada
380 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, ON, Canada
K1N 9N4
613-990-1985
info@gallery.ca
Visitor Information
Opening hours of the National Gallery of Art
From October to April the museum is closed on Mondays. On the remaining days (Tuesday to Sunday) it is open from 9:30 a.m. to 17:00 p.m., with extended opening hours on Thursdays until 20:00 p.m.
Is the National Gallery free?
The National Gallery offers free entry for the person accompanying a person with a disability. For tickets please call 1-800-319-ARTS (2787).
In addition, the National Gallery offers free entry to everyone every Thursday from 17.00pm to 20.00pm. No tickets are required. Visitors can also enjoy free art tours and activities during this time.
How much is admission to the National Gallery of Art in Ottawa?
The entrance fee is:
- $20 for adults
- $18 for seniors (+65)
- $10 for youth 24 and under and college students
- $40 for families
- free for children up to 11 years and for indigenous peoples
Can you take photos at the National Gallery of Art in Ottawa?
Cameras without a tripod may be used for photos without a flash (except in places where it is prohibited). The photos may only be used for private use.
Questions and Answers about the National Gallery of Art in Ottawa
What makes the architecture of the National Gallery of Art so special?
The National Gallery of Art in Ottawa impresses with its modern glass and granite structure. The play of light and shadow inside really highlights the works of art. Designed by Moshe Safdie, the architecture reflects the connection between nature and art. It offers a spectacular view of the city and the parliament buildings.
What works of art can be seen in the National Gallery of Art?
In the National Gallery you will find an impressive collection of Canadian and international art. Works by artists such as Tom Thomson and Emily Carr provide insights into Canadian art history. The gallery also shows European masterpieces and contemporary art. Each exhibition highlights a different facet of the art world.
Is it worth visiting the National Gallery of Art in winter?
Absolutely. The gallery is a perfect destination, especially in winter. It offers a warm retreat during the icy days of winter. The tranquil atmosphere and fascinating art collection make it a welcome respite from outdoor activities.
Can you also experience art from the outside?
The exterior of the National Gallery is art in itself. The glass facades reflect the light of the city, and the iconic spider "Maman" by Louise Bourgeois in front of the entrance draws the eye. Walking around the building gives you the opportunity to enjoy architecture and sculpture in Ottawa.
What should you keep in mind when visiting the National Gallery of Art?
Be sure to plan enough time to explore the diverse collection at your leisure. Find out about current exhibitions in advance so you don't miss anything. The gallery is spacious and there are always new corners to discover. A visit is ideal after a walk around the city or when the weather is bad.
Travel Arrangements:
Parking at the airport
Here you can reserve your parking space at the airport.
Arrival:
Compare and book flights here* (Advertisement). Air Canada and other airlines fly to Ottawa or Toronto. From there you can then travel on by rental car. It is also possible to continue your journey by bus or train.
Hotels:
Hotels in Ottawa * You can also book through our partner booking.com.
If you book through one of these offers, we receive a commission, which we use to run this blog.
Car Rentals:
You can book rental cars well and cheaply here.
Camper Rentals:
Do you like travelling with a motorhome? There are several campsites in Ottawa. One of them is Sleepy Cedars Family Camping, 1893 Manotick Station Rd, Greely, ON K4P 1H2, Canada. A Rent a motorhome You can also find our packing list for campers It also helps ensure that you don't forget anything.
Do you know this?
- Three museums in Vancouver
- Cheticamp on the Cabot Trail, folk art with humor
- Ottawa Winterlude: Ice Sculptures and More
- Packing list winter vacation
- Well located hotels for the Winterlude in Ottawa
- Upper Canada Village Ontario
- Camping in California: the best national parks and national forests
- Piran, the fishing village on the Adriatic
- Amazing architecture in the winery brain
- Lilienfeld Abbey - Abbey Library, Monastery & Gallery
- Göttweig Abbey in the Wachau in Austria
- Finance Holiday - Travel Blogger Tips
Discover Food Travel and Ontario tips here. Cities in Canada you can also find here.
Source National Gallery of Art: research on site. We would therefore like to thank the Ottawa Tourism Authority and the National Gallery of Art for the invitation. However, our opinions remain our own.
Text: © Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Photos: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
High ceilings ... Art museums ... I like both :-) The photos remind me of the Museum of Applied Arts in Leipzig - it's similarly high :-)
Hello Evy,
I do not know the museum in Leipzig, but the Museum of Art in Ottawa is worth a visit for its architecture alone.
Best regards,
Monika and Petar