Artist Testimonials
TOAF is proud to have launched the careers of thousands of artists since 1961. Read more about their experiences and how they have found TOAF to be a successful, professional, well-organized, engaged, and impressively well-attended event.
“As a new artist, I was apprehensive about applying to the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair. I am so happy that I did, as there were endless benefits. This was my first time sharing my art with people who aren’t friends and family and it was an invaluable experience. I made a lot of new connections with gallery owners, collectors, experienced artists who freely offered advice and wisdom, and finally, other emerging artists sharing the same experience as me that weekend.”
– Laura Wagner, Best of Ceramics Award Winner 2024
“I have been displaying at TOAF for almost 10 years now, and it is one of the highlights of my year. It pushes me to produce work that is honest, cohesive, and helps me engage with the public in a unique setting. The organizers are topnotch professionals who make the show worthwhile and pleasant. Not to mention the amount of people that experience your work is unprecedented and incomparable to a gallery setting. It truly is a must-do show for any emerging or professional artist.”
Daniel St-Amant, Artist
“My experience at the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair was incredible. As a recent university graduate, it gave me the opportunity to showcase my work to a wide audience, gain valuable exposure, and make meaningful connections with other artists. The event truly jumpstarted my career as an artist in Toronto, and I highly recommend young artists take advantage of this opportunity.”
Laila Bloomstone, Emerging Artist
“The online Fair is a brilliant idea! Not only does it allow us to still get our work out there and make new friends and clients, it levels the playing field for disabled artists. I am looking forward to building my online gallery and connecting with potential customers and collectors.”
Steve Kean, Best of Photography Winner, 2017
“TOAF was an absolute dream! The energy and camaraderie among the artists was inspiring! Everyone attending the fair was so supportive, it created a truly welcoming atmosphere for all. It was also an incredible opportunity to showcase my work on a massive stage, and connect with the art community. I highly recommend applying to any artist looking for an incredible opportunity and a great adventure.”
Adam McNamara, Artist
“I spent a few summers in the early 80’s at the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair with my work. It was a great experience meeting fellow Torontonians and tourists and having a chance to tell my story. I even sold a few prints which made the experience that much better!”
Edward Burtynsky, Canadian photographer and artist
“I really loved being included in one of the art talk tours and being able to answer questions and discuss my process with a group of interested art lovers. I had many photographers come to my booth over the course of the weekend just to see my work because I was an award winner! It felt great to connect with my community that way… Thank you again for the experience! It was a memorable and very worthwhile weekend.”
Amanda Arcuri, Fine Art Photographer
“Attending the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair for the first time was an incredible experience! I was super excited to sell more pieces than I had anticipated, which gave me the confidence and motivation to keep creating. Definitely exceeded my expectations going in.”
Joy Zheng, Artist
“TOAF was a great opportunity to showcase my work for the first time. I was lucky enough to have been accepted a few years in a row. The experience was incredible and it was nice to connect with other creatives in the city. This is a great fair to get exposure.”
Kathryn Macnaughton, Artist (Bau-Xi Gallery)
“I did the TOAF directly upon graduating from OCA (now called OCAD University). There was a small group of us from the art college that all decided to do this together for moral support… I did sell a few pieces at the show and occasionally have run into people all these years later who remind me that they bought a piece there for a very reasonable price and how happy the work has made them over the years. I was happy that they took a chance on me, a young unknown artist… I think all young artists should do this show and learn what there is to be learned from the whole experience!”
Barbara Astman, Photographer
“You must apply, especially young artists, recent gradates and students! TOAF is an excellent platform to garner critique from total strangers. Don’t be disheartened if your sales targets are not met. That’s how you grow as an artist. Encourage people to critique your work. The act of creating is a means of defining who you are. We are all in the act of searching.”
Jogi Makhani, Artist
