As the Transformation AGO project moves toward final design, the newest refinements to the exterior continue to respond to community feedback and will go on public view today in the AGO's Shell Orientation Centre. Members of the local community surrounding the AGO viewed the design modifications at meetings held May 25 and May 31. "Enthusiasm for the project continues to increase as our Transformation AGO project enters a very exciting stage," says Matthew Teitelbaum, AGO director and CEO. "We want to show our neighbours that we have been listening to them. This continues to be a truly iterative process, and we have had great response from the public to Frank Gehry's design. Their comments and suggestions have helped inform the process."

Modifications to the Dundas Street façade have given it a more open look, with glass and wood replacing some of the original titanium sheathing. In addition, two "cuts" in the structure at the west and east ends curl forward, animating the slow curve. "Removing part of the titanium sheath has made the façade open up even more to the street, and the wood stripping adds warmth to the structure," said Teitelbaum. "We think we are very close to the final look for Dundas Street."

The AGO's south wing is still going through changes, exploring different options for its facade. At the meeting on May 25, the AGO showed neighbours a south face with clear glazed glass, accented with rectilinear wood stripping. This new transparent look to the south façade gives a softer presence in relation to Grange Park and allows visitors to the park to see into the new contemporary galleries situated in the wing. The stairwells on the south side of the building have also been redesigned into more graceful spiral exterior staircases that are compatible with the AGO's historic house, The Grange.

Since the unveiling of Frank Gehry's schematic design on January 28, 2004, more than 100,000 people have visited the AGO to view the models and photos on display. Members of the public have shared their comments and suggestions through e-mails, comment cards and community meetings.

"The Gehry team gave us great details on the original plans and all the modifications from there. They are listening to the area residents, and making appropriate changes," said Helen Hatton, local resident and AGO volunteer.

The Art Gallery of Ontario's Transformation AGO project is a vision for a new kind of art museum - a place that brings art and people together in new and exciting ways. Building on the historic gift of Mr. Thomson's private art collection and an innovative design by Frank Gehry, the AGO will integrate groundbreaking ideas about the many ways that art and people can connect to make powerful experiences. The capital expansion will enlarge the AGO by 97,000 square feet and will increase art viewing space by 40%.

The AGO stands among the most distinguished art museums in North America. Founded by a group of private citizens in 1900, the AGO operates a 486,000-square-foot facility and owns a collection of more than 38,000 works of art from the 11th century to the present.