Passport to Culture - Collect your Downtown Gems Stamp at this location. Learn more
Calling All Artists! Apply for the Richmond Hill Cultural Centre Hallway Galleries. We are seeking visual artists interested in displaying 2D, ready-to-hang artwork for our 2027 rotating 3-month exhibitions. Submission Deadline: Monday, September 28. Apply Today!
About the Cultural Centre
Location:
10184 Yonge Street
Richmond Hill
Originally built in 1936 as a purpose-built Post Office, this historic gem has been reimagined into a dynamic Cultural Centre.
The Cultural Centre offers rentable rooms for artists, cultural organizations, and creative professionals. These spaces offer free Wi-Fi that renters can access during operating hours.
From hands-on studios to sound-dampening recording rooms and flexible gathering spaces, the Cultural Centre is built to support your creative journey.
The facility currently operates by permit and scheduled appointment and is not a public drop-in space at this time. Community members are invited to attend registered programs, workshops, and special events throughout the year.
Workshops
The Richmond Hill Cultural Centre is pleased to offer a new slate of capacity building and hands-on art and craft workshops, all in an intimate Boardroom setting. Whether you are a curious beginner, emerging artist, community group, or non-profit organization, there is an inspiring session waiting for you to explore.
View Workshops at the Cultural Centre
Exhibition Opportunity
Applications are now open for the 2027 Galleries.
We are seeking visual artists interested in exhibiting 2D artwork that are ready to hang. Solo or group exhibitions may be considered.
Application deadline is Monday, September 28, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
Submit Application
Open to all visual artists. Priority given to:
- Richmond Hill residents
- York Region residents
- Artists residing outside York Region (case-by-case)
Artists from equity-deserving groups are encouraged to apply.
Welcome Wednesdays
Join us on the last Wednesday of every month from 1 – 4 p.m. for an open house at the Cultural Centre! Meet staff, tour the studios and hallway galleries*, learn how to book space for your own creative projects, and experience this vibrant new hub for art and culture in the heart of Richmond Hill.
*Guided tours for small groups will be available on an ongoing basis. For safety reasons, independent wandering is not permitted at this time.
Bookable Spaces
How to Book a Space:
- Explore the available studios and spaces below.
- Submit your permit application.
- Staff will follow up with availability, fees, and next steps.
Application to Rent Work or Studio Space
| First Floor Studios |
| Art Studio (Dry Media) - Room 107 |
|
This 77 sq ft studio is designed for quiet, focused creativity in drawing, sketching, illustration, digital art, pastels, charcoal, beadwork and similar practices. Furnished with a multipurpose desk, a comfortable chair, an artist stool and ample storage. The studio is equipped with a selection of basic craft materials and tools to support artistic exploration. There is access to a janitorial sink across the hall.
- Room Capacity: 2
- Full Day (8 hrs): $69.58 + HST
- Half Day (4 hrs): $34.79 + HST
- Drop-In (per hr): $8.77 + HST
- Month Long: $118.07 + HST
|
| Art Studio (Wet Media) - Room 109 |
|
This 103 sq ft studio is tailored for painting, printmaking, collage, mixed media and hand-building with clay. Outfitted with a stainless-steel worktop, easels, stools and a drafting chair, storage and basic materials. Janitorial sink available across the hall.
- Room Capacity: 2
- Full Day (8 hrs): $69.58 + HST
- Half Day (4 hrs): $34.79 + HST
- Drop-In (per hr): $8.77 + HST
- Month Long: $118.07 + HST
 
|
| Complimentary First Floor Spaces |
|
Boardroom - Room 108
The Boardroom offers a professional space for cultural organizations, artists, and creatives to host small meetings, workshops, or group sessions. This is a complimentary 158 sq ft space with a boardroom table, conferencing equipment and seating for up to eight. Advance booking is required; priority is given to arts, culture, heritage, and creative industry uses.
- Room Capacity: 8
- No cost (advance booking required)
 
|
| Flex Office - Room 113 |
|
This is a modest 60 sq ft complimentary office space for short-term use by artists, cultural workers, and community partners. While compact and without windows, it provides a quiet, tucked-away spot to focus on administrative work with complimentary hardline internet (USBC connection).
- Room Capacity: 1
- No cost (advance booking required)
|
| Flex Space - Room 115 |
|
This is a complimentary 61 sq ft flex space designed for working, researching, or creating. The space is furnished with a gateleg folding table, convenient for larger projects, along with seating and floor lamp lighting.
- Room Capacity: 2
- No cost (advance booking required)
|
|
| Second Floor Studios |
| Photo Studio - Room 201 |
|
At 91 sq ft, the Photo Studio is outfitted with studio strobe lighting (wireless trigger system), a tripod, and interchangeable backdrops (including a green screen). This space can be used for portfolio shoots, commercial images, or experimental visual projects. Some experience with photography equipment is recommended for the use of this studio.
This booking includes a Canon EOS RP with RF 24-105mm IS STM Lens for high-resolution capture and a sekonic light meter. *Participants must be prepared to bring their own SD cards as this is not included with the camera.
- Room Capacity: 2
- Resident/Non-Profit:
- Full Day (8 hrs): $326.40 + HST
- Half Day (4 hrs): $163.20 + HST
- Drop-In (per hr): $48 + HST
- Non-Resident/Commercial:
- Full Day (8 hrs): $516.80 + HST
- Half Day (4 hrs): $258.40 + HST
- Drop-In (per hr): $76 + HST
|
| Podcast Studio - Room 202 |
|
The Podcast Studio is designed for podcasters, musicians and content creators seeking reliable recording quality in a professional setting. At 135 sq ft, this space is outfitted with professional-grade Shure MV7 XLR and Shure SM7B microphones, ensuring crisp, broadcast-ready sound. Video recording is supported by a Logitech 960-001419 camera and Camworld AC12 camera, with professional lighting to create a polished visual presentation. A MackieProFX10v3+ 10-Channel Professional Effects Mixer with Bluetooth offers flexibility for multiple inputs, mixing, and live effects.
- Resident/Non-Profit:
- Full Day (8 hrs): $326.40 + HST
- Half Day (4 hrs): $163.20 + HST
- Drop-In (per hr): $48 + HST
- Non-Resident/Commercial:
- Full Day (8 hrs): $516.80 + HST
- Half Day (4 hrs): $258.40 + HST
- Drop-In (per hr): $76 + HST
 
|
| Editing Studio - Room 212 |
|
The Editing Studio provides a professional, sound-dampened environment for audio, video, and digital content production. Equipped with a MackieProFX10v3+ 10-Channel Professional Effects Mixer with Bluetooth, studio monitors, and high-quality headphones for precise sound control.
Users also have access to Shure MV7 XLR and Shure SM7B microphones for recording voiceovers, narration, or supplementary audio. For music and multimedia editing, the Novation Launchkey MK3 61-Key controller supports MIDI composition and creative experimentation.
- Resident/Non-Profit:
- Full Day (8 hrs): $326.40 + HST
- Half Day (4 hrs): $163.20 + HST
- Drop-In (per hr): $48 + HST
- Non-Resident/Commercial:
- Full Day (8 hrs): $516.80 + HST
- Half Day (4 hrs): $258.40 + HST
- Drop-In (per hr): $76 + HST
|
|
Equipment Available with Rentals
|
|
Editing Studio - Standard in Room Equipment
Users must bring their own USB or Harddrive
- iMac Computer with Logic Pro & Final Cut Pro
- iMac Keyboard
- iMac Mouse
- Launchkey Midi Keyboard
- Mackie ProFX10v3+ Mixer
- Shure MV7X XLR Podcast Microphone
- USB Hub
- Yamaha HS4 Powered Studio Monitors
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones
- Clamp on Power Bar (Attached to desk)
- Desk Lamp
- Headphone Holder (attached to desk)
- Rode Mic Arm (attached to desk)
- Dell MonitorVideo Capture card (attached to computer)
Photo Studio - Standard in Room Equipment
- Camera Tripod
- Godox MS300V Monolights
- Godox 60*90cm Softbox
- Godox collapsible light reflector
- Neewer 33" Umbrella reflector stand with 24W 5700K LED bulb
- White Backdrop
- Black Backdrop
- Green Screen
- Black Stool
- Phone Holder (in basket)
- White balance card
- Color diffuser lamp cover
Podcast Studio - Standard in Room Equipment
- iMac Computer with Logic Pro & Final Cut Pro
- iMac Keyboard
- iMac Mouse
- Launchkey Midi Keyboard
- Mackie ProFX10v3+ Mixer
- MV7X XLR Podcast Microphone
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones
- ART Pro Audio 4 Channel Headphone Amp
- USB Hub
- Yamaha HS4 Powered Studio Monitors
- TV
- TV remote
- Clamp on Power Bar (Attached to desk)
- Rode Mic Arm (attached to desk)
- Headphone Holder (attached to desk)
- Video Capture card (attached to computer)
- Desk Lamp
- Yorkville MS 206 Mic stands
Camera Add on Package
Users must bring their own memory card for the Canon Camera
- Canon EOD RP body with 24mm-105mm lense
- Sketonic Light meter
- Godox XT-16 Flash Trigger
- Godox Umbrella
Video Add on Package
Users must bring their own memory card for the video camera
- Camcorder Video Camera - 5K 56MP
- Video Camera tripod
- Logitech Brio 4K Webcam
Microphone Add on Package
- Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
- Shure SM57 Unidirectional Dynamic Microphone
- Shure SM7B Large Diaphragm Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
- Apex 6-inch Dual Screen Nylon Pop Filter
- Pop Filter Socks
- ART Pro Audio Passive Direct Box
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones
- ART Pro Audio 4 Channel Headphone Amp
Lighting Add on Package
- Neewer 60cm x 60cm softboxes with 24W 5700K LED bulb
- Neewer 33" Umbrella reflector stand
- NEEWER Umbrella Reflector
- NEEWER 66.5" Camera Monopod (Selfie stick)
- Light Stand for umbrella reflector
- Tripods for Light Boxes
- Collapsible light reflector
- LED Video Light Kit, NiceVeedi 2800-6500K
Backdrop Add on Package
- Paper Backdrop- Roll, Dark Grey
- Paper Backdrop- Roll, Grey
- Paper Backdrop- Roll, White
- Black backdrop
- Brick backdrop
- White Backdrop
To request specific gear please email culture@richmondhill.ca
|
|
| Things to Note |
- The Cultural Centre provides subsidized access to spaces that support arts, culture, creative industries, and community based nonprofit initiatives. These subsidized spaces are reserved for community benefit and are not generally available for commercial or corporate use, unless the activity is directly arts or creative industry related. The City may decline applications that do not align with this mandate.
- Processing Time
- Please allow up to five business days for permit requests to be reviewed. During weekday hours (Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.), Cultural Services staff may assist with permit creation for same day or future bookings of our current complementary spaces (Flex Office, Flex Space, and Boardroom), subject to availability.
- Equitable Access and Frequency of Use
- To ensure broad public access, the City may limit the frequency of bookings by any single group or individual.
- Health and Safety: Artforms requiring specialized ventilation or equipment – such as oil painting, resin art, spray painting, encaustic, welding and metalwork, or glasswork – are not permitted.
- Permit holders must be 18 years of age or older. Youth or student artists must be 16 years of age or older and may access studio spaces only when a parent or legal guardian (18+) holds the permit on their behalf.
|
Permittable Hours:
Monday to Wednesday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Thursday and Friday: 9 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
The Cultural Centre is closed on Sundays and Statutory Holidays
Tour the Space
360 Tour of the Cultural Centre:
About the Building
| Hallway Galleries |
| About the Hallway Galleries
The Richmond Hill Cultural Centre has two hallway gallery spaces located on the first and second floors of the building. The galleries host rotating exhibits on a quarterly (3 month) basis from talented artists selected during our artist calls.
The space includes:
- Professional picture-hanging system installed
- First floor: 9 ft ceilings, suitable for oversized works
- Second floor: Adjacent to digital media studios, ideal for digital artists and photographers
Note: As a heritage building, only the first floor is wheelchair accessible.
|
| Parking |
| Limited free parking is available onsite. Additional paid street parking is located nearby. The Centre is conveniently accessible by public transit along the Yonge Street corridor. |
| Accessibility |
|
The Cultural Centre is only accessible on the first floor. There is no elevator at this site. Contact staff if you have further questions or require accommodations.
|
| Community Office Spaces |
|
In addition to short-term flexible studio space, meeting space, and hallway galleries, the Richmond Hill Cultural Centre includes permittable office spaces for community artists and cultural organizations on a longer-term basis (minimum one year commitment). The Cultural Centre provides a unique atmosphere that is beneficial to community cultural groups seeking to connect with other creatives.
Meet Our Creative Community
The Richmond Hill Cultural Centre is currently home to the following creative professionals:
Sean Cisterna is an award-winning filmmaker and the founder of Mythic Productions, a production company creating feature films, documentaries, and television series for Canadian and international audiences. His work spans development, production, and post-production, with projects ranging from family films and festival-favourite documentaries to community-driven storytelling initiatives that explore creativity, resilience, and human connection.
Website
Instagram
Facebook
The York Region Alliance of African Canadian Communities (YRAACC) is a not‑for‑profit organization founded in 2016 that celebrates and strengthens African Canadian communities across York Region, including the City of Richmond Hill. Our approach is rooted in Afri‑centric and Ubuntu values. YRAACC delivers culturally affirming programs and community events that highlight African and Caribbean heritage through performance art, storytelling, music, and creative expression. Our signature initiatives include the Sankofa Cultural Identity and Mentoring Program, serving youth in Grades 4–12 through African‑centred storytelling, arts‑based learning, and leadership development.
Bluesky
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
TikTok
Bato Cultural Organization Inc. is a not-for-profit arts and cultural organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting diverse cultural expressions through community-based programming, festivals, and artistic initiatives. Our work focuses on creating inclusive platforms for artists, creatives, and cultural practitioners, with particular emphasis on intercultural dialogue and community engagement.
Website
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
Odeiwin is an Indigenous not-for-profit organization based in Richmond Hill. Rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing, our work is guided by the teaching of creating safe and respectful spaces for people of all directions. We offer land-based learning, cultural teachings, and community education programs that are shaped through the voices, experiences, and collaboration of the community members we serve. Engaging with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous residents, Odeiwin supports connection, belonging, and shared understanding.
Website
Facebook
Events
The Village of Richmond Hill BIA is the voice of the business community. We are committed to improving and promoting the Village of Richmond Hill business area to maintain its position as Richmond Hill’s primary shopping, dining, business and entertainment destination. We strive to improve, beautify and maintain municipally owned lands, buildings and structures in the area. The BIA plays a powerful role in enriching the City’s cultural vibrancy by acting as a bridge between local business, artists, residents, and visitors. We are dedicated to promoting and preserving local history and heritage, as well as celebrating cultural identity through diverse businesses and cuisines.
Website
|
| History of the Post Office – A Richmond Hill Landmark |
- 1935: The Dominion of Canada purchases Joseph Hall’s former grocery store and residence at Yonge and Centre Streets to build a permanent post office.
- 1936: Construction begins, designed by Forsey Page & Company, a leading Toronto architectural firm.
- December 6, 1936: The new Richmond Hill Post Office officially opens, led by Colonel William Mulock, M.P. and Postmaster General of Canada.
- Built at a cost of $40,000, the modern brick building reflects the community’s growth, progress, and civic pride.
- Architectural style blends Art Deco geometry with Georgian Revival and Edwardian Classical details — Richmond Hill’s first example of Art Deco design.
- 1960: A larger post office opens on Arnold Crescent; this building becomes home to the Richmond Hill Hydro Commission.
- 1984: The Town of Richmond Hill purchases the property, recognizing its heritage value.
- 2012: Fully restored to its original 1936 appearance and designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act.
- 2025: Today, the former post office stands proudly as the Richmond Hill Cultural Centre, connecting community through arts, culture, and history.
|
