Our Story

For Us By Us

62 Artists

16 Workshops

53 Community Events

Over 1,000 Community Members 

... And Counting

 

Curated by Imani Dominique, “The Gift Shop” is an immersive art gallery and business incubator for artists.

Since our founding in 2023, we have supported over 60 QTBIPOC visual and performing artists. The artists are given space to showcase their art, develop as entrepreneurs, and build community. Through engaging in professional development workshops and creative activations hosted in the space, this program also provides emerging and mid-career artists with an opportunity to incubate their businesses and develop their entrepreneurial skills. 

Living Room Concerts” is a performance series presented by The Gift Shop that showcases emerging singers, spoken word artists, rappers, and more.The series not only provides QTBIPOC artists with a space to perform to an intimate and supportive audience, but also works with them to develop their business acumen - empowering them to thrive in the industry.

“The Gift Shop” is a space for artists to develop their business skills, build community, and celebrate their craft.

The Gift Shop: Open Studio

Curated by Imani Dominique, “The Gift Shop: Open Studio” will provide emerging QTBIPOC artists with an innovative environment for creativity and play. The walls of “The Gift Shop: Open Studio” will feature beautiful artwork by program alumni. For fun and freedom. 

Located at The Combine, a Toronto-based hub for creative agencies, this open studio concept will offer artists a warm, guards-down, space for play. Artists are invited to sign-up to use the space, create artwork, and meet other inspiring creatives. They may also bring their own materials and store them in our space and/or purchase canvases when they arrive. Paint, brushes, paper, and markers will be provided. Book Studio Space here.

In addition to free studio space, we’ll be hosting community-building events, professional development workshops, and creative activations.

“The Gift Shop: Open Studio” features artwork by: Chawntay Barrett, Ehiko Odeh, Ella’s Precision, Imani Dominique, jetlag, Neigh Ramirez, Percy Eriamiator, Pixel Heller, and Yinkore.

For Us By Us.

Please contact imani@imandominique.com for press inquiries.

Our History

The Gift Shop 3.0

June - July, 2024

Ottawa, ON Canada

ByWard Market

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The Gift Shop 2.0

September 2023 - February 2024

Toronto, ON Canada

STACKT Market

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The Gift Shop 1.0

March 2023

Mississauga, ON Canada

Square One Shopping Centre

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FAQ

Where Are You Located?

"The Gift Shop: Open Studio" is located at The Combine 225 Wellington St W, Toronto, ON M5V 3G7. This exhibition is free with the option to donate towards supporting future exhibitions. Regular opening hours are from 9-5 PM EST from February 7th to 27th. Studio Hours are from 11-7 PM Wednesday through Friday. The show will be accessible both physically and digitally through a virtual space walkthrough, online store, and accessible seating. The virtual walkthrough will be available on imanidominique.com after February 9th, 2025. Workshops held in the space are free and open to the public. Visit shopthegiftshop.ca to register.

How Can I Sell My Art Through The Gift Shop?

Artists can join The Gift Shop Program by submitting an application. There are no current calls for artists. Please follow us on Instagram and/or join our mailing list for updates.

How Can I Perform In Living Room Concerts?

Artists can join the Living Room Concerts series by submitting an application. There are no current calls for artists. Please follow us on Instagram and/or join our mailing list for updates.

When Is The Next Vinyl Painting Workshop?

Vinyl Painting at Sunset is a year-round workshop. Please follow us on Instagram and click the link below for upcoming classes.

Vinyl Painting At Sunset

I'm interested in facilitating a workshop or partnering with the program.

Thank you for your interest and support! Please direct your inquiry to imani@imanidominique.com.

Thank You To Our Partners and Sponsors