Denise S.
Yelp
The DX is a small but interesting gallery space in the TD bank tower right in the Financial District. It's not where you normally expect to go to look at art -- sort of a hidden gem in the middle of all the banks and businesses. And unlike most things in the Financial District, they are open on weekends! Also, I have been there a number of times and it is never crowded. Actually, on several occasions I've had the gallery to myself. Kind of nice!
It's housed in the old Toronto Stock Exchange, but the trading floor is not open to the public. It is used for private events, mostly. I was there for an exhibition opening party and the hall is very Art Deco, clean, and elegant.
The main gallery is on the 3rd floor. Again, it is small -- probably 30 mins. is enough for most people to walk around. They have a variety of special exhibits (no permanent collection) that rotate every few months. I have been there for an exhibit of Princess Diana's dresses that were being shown before they were auctioned. They also had a photography exhibit in May as part of the CONTACT festival. They had a Chinese Industrial Design exhibit a few years ago and every year there are Canadian Design Awards and you can see some of the winners here. Currently, the exhibit is a collection of ballet costumes and sets in collaboration with the National Ballet of Canada, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary.
Entrance to the main gallery is ~$10 (student discount available, $8), but look out for free exhibits on the main floor. Tuesdays from 5-8pm are PWYC. Considering the size of the gallery, the admission prices are a bit expensive IMO. Also, check out the little design shop on the main floor that sells great gift items, stationary, and home accessories mainly by independent Canadian designers.
In addition to the exhibits and store, they organize lectures and events pretty regularly. Check the website for details: http://www.dx.org/.