The Playground Studio

At The Playground Studio, we see art as a tool for collective reflection, resistance, and renewal. Our space is dedicated to creative practices that question and transform the systems shaping our world; including colonialism, racial capitalism, and ecological destruction.

We centre themes of transformative justice, workers’ liberation, decolonization, intersectional environmentalism, mutual aid, and the radical reimagining of community care.

For us, this work is not just about what’s on the walls, it’s about how we build together. Every exhibition, submission, workshop and conversation is guided by a commitment to accountability, informed consent, collaboration, and respect.

The Playground Studio is a space for artists, organizers, and community members to imagine new possibilities and to practice care, resistance, and transformation through art.

FAQs

  • What is The Playground?

    The Playground is a community-first creative space where artists, tattooers, makers, performers and facilitators come to create, curate, and connect.
    Not a white-wall gallery. Not a traditional tattoo studio. It's a living art space that invites collaboration, experimentation, and self-expression.

  • Who is it For?

    Anyone can submit a proposal to host a session, class, or show at The Playground.

    Curators & Artists – Pitch a themed show or collaborate with us to create one together.

    Artists, Makers & Organizers – Host a class or workshop, or showcase your work. Display and sell prints, ceramics, textiles, zines, and more.

    Tattoo Artists – Guest with us for a day, a week, or a pop-up! Use our space, bring your clients, and share your artistry.

  • How Can Artists and Creators Use the Space?

    Artists, makers and facilitators of all kinds can book a week to tattoo, create, or exhibit, making the space entirely theirs during that time. You can propose a show or collaborate with our team to curate your vision. We also offer a small-scale retail area perfect for displaying prints, zines, ceramics, and handmade goods. Additionally, we welcome events and pop-ups such as workshops, talks, art drops, and tattoo flash days.

  • What's The Vibe?

    The Playground is somewhere between an art gallery, a tattoo studio, a community centre and a healing space.

    The layout is open and adaptable, shifting with each project or gathering.

    It’s a space where care and creation overlap, where ink meets intention, and where everyone’s invited too slow down, make something, or simply be.

    There’s no pressure here. No hierarchy. Just an open invitation to explore, collaborate, and connect.

    At The Playground, we believe collaboration is healing, art is communal, and transformation begins in shared space.

    Come as you are. Stay as long as you like.

  • how does it work?

    After reviewing our FAQ, please submit your proposal through our contact page or by clicking the button below. We will review your submission to confirm availability and capacity to support your project. Once approved, we will schedule a preliminary meeting to align on vision and details. After approval and agreement, we will work closely together to ensure your show or workshop is a success, supporting you every step of the way.

  • building accessibility

    The Playground is located on the first floor with direct access from the parking area. The main entrance is step-free and easily accessible from street level.

    Inside the studio, please note:

    There are two steps leading from the main area into the gallery space. The door is 82×35”.

    The gallery space has no windows.

    There is two non-gendered washrooms located downstairs and can only be reached via a staircase with over 10 steps and a small landing in between.

    We recognize that these features may present accessibility challenges. If you have specific access needs, please feel free to contact us in advance — we’ll do our best to accommodate you and make your visit as comfortable as possible.

  • What’s included?

    Space Features & Amenities

    Total area: 336 sq. ft. of usable space

    Ceiling height: 13 ft

    Display options: Display walls, shelves, and two display cubes

    Flexible layout: Movable wall for adaptable setups

    Equipment: Projector, speaker, Wi-Fi, printer

    Lighting: Basic gallery lighting included

    Furnishings: Chairs and tables available

    Additional features: Kitchenette, A-frame sidewalk sign, and garage door access

    Support services: Optional staff assistance for setup and teardown

    🔗Floor plan

  • rates and fees

    Rental Rates

    Workshops & Guest Tattoo Artists (Full Day)

    $150 per day
    (10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
    or
    $30/hr(3-hour minimum)

    Exhibitions

    $525 per week(funded artists / organizations)

    (7 consecutive days; 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily)

    *Sliding scale available for unfunded artists based on income and funding access.

    Extended Hours

    +$20/hr after 6:00 PM

    Support / Additional Assistance
    $30/hr

    Commission

    The gallery takes a 20% commission on all sales made during the rental or exhibition period.

    Payment & Cancellation
    50% non-refundable deposit required to confirm booking
    Remaining balance due 48 hours prior to the start date

submit a proposal