Thames Art Gallery

Hours of Operation

Wednesday to Friday, Sunday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Saturday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Admission by Donation

Thames Art Gallery (TAG) is more than an art gallery—it’s a vibrant community gathering place where creativity, culture, and connection come together in the heart of Chatham. Through inspiring exhibitions, hands-on workshops, educational programs, and community-driven initiatives, the Gallery invites visitors of all ages to explore new ideas, discover diverse perspectives, and celebrate the power of the arts.

Whether you’re an artist, lifelong art lover, curious visitor, student, or family looking for creative fun, Thames Art Gallery is a welcoming destination where imagination is sparked, voices are amplified, and community is built through the arts.

The history of TAG began in 1963, when the old Chatham Vocational School was purchased by a group of citizens eager to establish an arts centre in Chatham. By 1969, The Thames Theatre Association for the Arts was presenting live performances in the original school theatre, and the old gymnasium was being used as the art gallery. In 1975, a community fundraising campaign led to major renovations to the gymnasium and studio areas of the building, and in 1980, the newly named Thames Art Gallery was acquired by the City of Chatham. The building was eventually renamed The Chatham Cultural Centre and is home to the Thames Art Gallery, Kiwanis Theatre and Chatham-Kent Museum.

Permanent Collection

More than 700 artworks tell the story of Chatham-Kent’s artistic heritage and creative evolution.

The Thames Art Gallery Permanent Collection preserves works from the late 1800s to today, celebrating influential artists, local history, and contemporary Canadian art practices. Explore the lives and works of artists such as Alexander M. Fleming, George Wolfe, and Hortense Gordon, whose legacies continue to shape our community.

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