Accessibility
Art of Inclusion
In 2014, the McMichael Canadian Art Collection released The Art of Inclusion: Seven Steps – A Guide to Developing and Delivering Accessible and Inclusive Programs within Arts and Cultural Organizations, a new industry guideline based on the results of the gallery’s EnAbling Change Project with the Government of Ontario. The two-year project revolved around two key priorities: developing and implementing inclusive art programs in an environment that directly supports individuals’ needs, and producing a guide based on those experiences.
The Art of Inclusion and its seven-step process—a nod to the Group of Seven painters—will assist other arts and culture organizations in developing and implementing their own accessible initiatives, and demonstrate the overall benefits of engaging visitors through specialized programs.
Accessibility Standards for Customer Service
The McMichael Canadian Art Collection is in compliance with the Accessibility Standards for Customer Service (Ontario Regulation 429/07) under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) 2005.
The McMichael Canadian Art Collection is committed to using reasonable efforts to ensure the organization and its services are accessible to persons with varying disabilities, consistent with the core principles of independence, dignity, integration and equality of opportunity.
We can arrange for accessible feedback and alternate formats upon request.
Mobility and/or Wheelchair Accessibility
All our galleries and facilities are wheelchair accessible, under regular operations. If there is a disruption in accessibility, it will be stated in the space “Disruptions in Service” below.
People with reduced mobility may be dropped off at the main entrance of the gallery by their driver as long as the driver informs the parking booth attendant upon arrival.
There is elevator and ramp access between lower and upper-level galleries, and the McMichael Café. Wheelchairs are available at the gallery on a first-come, first-served basis; visitors may inquire about wheelchairs at the gallery’s Admission Desk.
Family and Wheelchair-accessible Washrooms
A wheelchair-accessible washroom is located on every floor. If a special needs individual has a support worker of the opposite sex, either the male or the female washroom can be utilized: to ensure protection of privacy, please advise the respective Gallery Guide prior to entering.
Lighting
People who are visually impaired should note that certain gallery spaces are dimly lit, in order to protect some of the light-sensitive works in the collection.
Assistive Devices
If you have a personal assistive device or special requirement(s), please advise our Admissions staff upon arrival, and they will ensure supportive internal communications and that you can take your supporting need(s) with you as you enjoy the artwork.
The Admission Desk will require that you check all backpacks, computer bags, umbrellas, food and beverage, for no cost upon entrance. Extra bags put artwork at risk, particularly in tight gallery spaces. Food and beverages are also hazardous to art, so we kindly ask that unless it is a special requirement, you enjoy your food and beverages before entering gallery spaces.
Support Person and/or Service Animal
Admission is free for attendants who accompany a person with a disability. The gallery also allows admission into the building for guide or service animals accompanying a person who requires special assistance.
Communication
When communicating with a person with a disability, the McMichael service provider will aim to do so in a manner that takes into account the needs and circumstances of the individual with the disability. Our gallery staff are given training on various disabilities and potential alternate means of communication. Where required, our staff will aim to make the original communication more accessible by adapting to the needs of the person with the disability.
If there is a way in which we can enhance our communications, please advise the respective McMichael provider directly and/or complete the Visitor Comment Card found at our Admissions Desk, or via the “Contact Us” link below.
Disruptions in Service
If there is a disruption in facilities or services that are specifically used by persons with disabilities, a notice of the disruption will be posted in this space on our website and at Admissions Front desk entrance. The notice will state the reason for the disruption, how long it is expected to last, and what alternate facilities or services exist, if any.
Please inquire at the Admission Desk upon your arrival or call our Receptionist in advance at 905.893.1121, ext. 0 with any questions.
Feedback
If you have any questions or comments, please complete a Visitor Comment Card located at the Admission Desk or contact us by email. All comments are logged and responded directly to the contact information provided.
Website Access
The McMichael gallery is committed to making its website as accessible as possible for users with disabilities. We provide transcripts for audio content and captions for video content to make multimedia accessible. Information presented on the website is available in text format on request.
Standards Compliance
Our website aims to conform to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA, which are recognized as the international standard for web accessibility. We regularly review our website to ensure ongoing compliance with accessibility standards.
Accessibility Policies and Multi-Year Accessibility Plan
This 2023-2027 accessibility plan outlines the policies and actions that the McMichael Canadian Art Collection will put in place to improve opportunities for people with disabilities.