Toronto Arts Facts

Toronto Arts Facts gathers together key information about the arts in Toronto, compiled from a wide variety of research studies and statistical resources. This information falls into the general areas of the arts’ role in the economy, its impact on communities, and its place in people’s lives.

A nighttime photo. There is a pink sign that says 'Toronto' and pink fireworks in the background.

 

We’re delighted to welcome you to the 2016 version of Toronto Arts Facts, updated with new facts and stats about the arts in Toronto. Like our first edition, Toronto Arts Facts 2016 draws on a variety of research studies – including a growing number by arts associations and organizations interested in uncovering our true size and impact – and statistical information from Statistics Canada, CADAC (Canadian Arts Data / Données sur les arts au Canada), and government and academic sources.

Toronto Arts Facts tells a compelling story about how the arts enliven and enrich Toronto’s neighbourhoods and local businesses, help young people gain purpose and confidence, enhance the livability of our city, and build local pride. They also play a central role in building the creative economy, engaged citizenry and social cohesion on which Toronto’s continued growth and prosperity depends. The fact that Torontonians enthusiastically participate in and value the arts speaks to those harder to measure impacts such as communal belonging, life-long learning, spiritual renewal and the empathy and mutual understanding so necessary to a multi-cultural community like ours.

We hope that this project becomes the first of many bringing together researchers and arts leaders to understand the impact of the arts in Toronto on an engaged and appreciative community – sparking continued creative growth and further recognition on the world stage.

Acknowledgements

Toronto Arts Facts 2016 is a publication of Toronto Arts Foundation, compiled and edited by Jini Stolk, Creative Trust Fellow, with assistance from Margo Charlton, Kathleen McLeod, Christine Pellerin and Susan Wright.

Our thanks to Kelly Hill and Hill Strategies Research, Leger, CADAC (Canadian Arts Data / Données sur les arts au Canada), the City of Toronto, Artscape, the Canadian Arts Coalition, and the Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts (TAPA).

 

Download any of the infographics below for free to share or post on your website. 

Toronto Arts Facts