Art Metropole

I've known Art Metropole in a lot of incarnations and this is a good one. This is THE place in Toronto for artists' bookworks & multiples. Not monographs about artists but books that are designed by the artists as art projects with the artist's own content (writing, images). There are some catalogues, art magazines & critical texts too but limited in number. You are better off going to Type if that's what you're looking for. The store looks great & is roomy and well organized. Cleverly designed shelving maximizes display of their publications. It's wonderful that Art Metropole keeps reinventing itself decade after decade & I recommend you visit if you are interested in contemporary art.

When you go in looking for something funky, look through the bottom shelves. I've found printe from the 80's, and all kinds of zines. It's a great shop for inspo, class texts, or the latest magazine issues

THE best collection of art and original books in Toronto, hosted by a stellar professional team. Impossible to leave the store empty handed. Put them on your priority list when in Toronto.

Really exceptional selection of DIY and conceptual/experimental zines and artist books

Have been acquiring books and editions by artists from Art Met for over 10 years. Always interesting selection of items that can't be found elsewhere in Toronto. Impossible for art and book lovers to leave empty-handed.

Art Metropole is a non-profit artist-run centre incorporated in 1974. It's a great place to pick up contemporary art works, unique artist books and one of a kin gifts. They also host exhibitions, performances and readings.

Loved their space when it used to operate as a gift shop inside the MOCA. It was the physical embodiment of hygge. Since Covid, they relocated to the building across the street and operating only as a contactless pickup point for now (November 2020). Hopefully they open their store again for walk-ins soon!

Smaller than before, but great place, good space, good staff, plus I found this really great photobook on Galleria Mall there.

It's impossible for me to go into this bookstore without wanting to buy almost everything I see. The collection of artist books, zines, prints, exhibited works, etc. is wonderful and you'd be hard pressed finding a lot of their stock anywhere else. They're quite close to Queen St. so if you happen to be out shopping or wandering aimlessly in that area, it's only a short walk to get to and it's definitely worth it.

For some of us the dyin' breed moniker is often a badge of honor. Coming upon this fine establishment last winter; seeking it out in fact as a must stop and peruse: I was thoroughly impressed with items I had long thought were lost to the dustbins of indie boys and girls of a certain age and aesthetic. So much to buy, so little space remaining in my tote bag. You're pretty much left alone to scavenge at will. A sister store to Printed Matter it seems. Definitely a must in Toronto.