Continuing a Legacy
Ken Danby Award for Excellence in Realism

Some stories come full circle.

In 1961, at TOAF’s very first exhibition, a 21-year-old Ken Danby (1940–2007) received the inaugural Best of Art Exhibition award – a $1,000 prize that marked an early milestone in the career of a then-emerging artist. Danby would go on to become a household name in Canadian art.

This year, as TOAF celebrates its 65th anniversary, that legacy continues.

The Rudolph P. Bratty Family Foundation is contributing $6,500 towards the Ken Danby Award for Excellence in Realism, honouring both Danby’s enduring influence and the pivotal role the Fair played in his career. As long-time supporters of TOAF and dedicated collectors of Danby’s work, the Bratty family see this award as a true love letter to Canadian art.

Stories like these remind us that the Fair is more than three days on Nathan Phillips Square. It’s about what happens next — the confidence that grows, the recognition that matters, and the doors that open.

We are deeply grateful to our partners and our community for making this possible.

And to the artists: we’re honoured to be part of your journey. We look forward to discovering new voices and welcoming back familiar ones at TOAF65.

P.S. Apply to be part of TOAF65, one month left!

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This one’s for the Artists

We wanted to capture the excitement and spirit of this milestone year at TOAF in a way that feels joyful and uplifting. This video, created with the wonderful team at Pinknet Studio, does just that. We hope it brings a smile and lets you feel the love for the artists who make TOAF so special.