OCAD U Gala 2026
George Pimentel Photography
On Wednesday, May 27, OCAD University once again brought Toronto’s art and design community together for an unforgettable evening in support of the next generation of creative talent.
Held at OCAD U’s Main Building and Rosalie Sharp Centre for Design, this year’s Gala transformed the campus into an immersive celebration of art, design, philanthropy and community — with a VIP reception, dinner, live art auction and after party all unfolding under one roof.
I was honoured to serve on this year’s Gala Committee for a second year and to be part of an evening that continues growing into one of Toronto’s most exciting cultural events. There was a real energy in the room — artists, collectors, designers, business leaders, alumni and supporters all gathered around the same idea: that creativity matters, and that institutions like OCAD U play a vital role in shaping the future.
It was especially meaningful to be in the room with such luminaries as Canadian Philanthropists Isadore and Rosalie Sharp whose support and vision have had such a lasting impact on OCAD U and the broader arts community.
A personal highlight for me was having my painting, Before the Guests Arrive — Lot 11 in the live auction — included among the works by OCAD U alumni. I’m thrilled to share that the painting sold above estimate, which made the moment even more special. As an artist, it is always meaningful when a work finds a new home, but in this case, the sale also helped support student bursaries at OCAD U, making it part of something much larger.
There was also a fun family crossover happening across the city that same night. Mira was at The Carlu leading the Battle of the Brains Gala for DayTrippers Charity, where she serves as Executive Director. DayTrippers is a fantastic charity that helps children access field trips and educational experiences beyond the classroom. Mira had invited her girlfriends to support her event, and the husbands joined me at the OCAD U Gala. Later in the evening, Mira and a few of the girls made their way over to OCAD U for the after party, bringing both nights together in the best possible way.
The after party carried the momentum of the evening forward — music, art, cocktails, friends and the full creative spirit of the OCAD U community. It felt less like a formal fundraising event and more like a true celebration of the city’s artists, designers and supporters.
Huge congratulations to OCAD U, the Gala Co-Chairs Amy Burstyn-Fritz (Co-founder, Misette) and Jeff Hull (President, Hullmark), committee members, Colleen Baldwin, Chris Braden, Jaclyn Cobourn, Alison Currie, Rana Florida, Alan Gertner, Nandini Gupta, Alison Milne, Tanya Taylor, sponsors, artists, donors, volunteers and everyone who helped bring the night to life. I’m grateful to have played a small role and proud to continue supporting a university that has meant so much to me personally and creatively.
Looking forward to seeing this event continue to grow.
Photo Credit: George Pimentel Photography / @georgepimentel1