Koffler Centre of the Arts, now operating as Koffler Arts, has a strong history of nearly 50 years of excellence and innovation in arts and culture. Established in 1977 as part of the Bathurst Jewish Community Centre to enrich the cultural life of the city through arts education and exhibitions, we have grown to inspire and enlighten the Jewish community as well as the broader public of Toronto and beyond.
From 1980 to 2009, Koffler was located in its own dedicated gallery space at the Bathurst Jewish Community Centre. In 2009 it moved off-site and operated as an itinerant gallery and multi-disciplinary arts organisation for the following five years. That same year it was incorporated as an independent charitable organisation.
In 2013, after five years of off-site programs, Koffler opened its administrative offices and gallery at Youngplace in downtown Toronto. The Youngplace facilities showcase exhibitions, public programs, expanded school and education programs, as well as cross-disciplinary programs – literary events, performances, speakers series, workshops and more.
In 2025, we purchased our gallery and office space at Youngplace, also acquiring an additional gallery and multi-use space on the third floor of the same building, its first permanent home in its now nearly 50-year history.
Over the years, Koffler has been led by a stellar roster of champions of the arts. The early leadership and chairmanship of Aaron Milrad, the transformative 10 year leadership of Dorothy Shoichet, Chair Emeritus, the constant directorship of one-time chair Carl Goldenberg, the long standing 25 year commitment of Tiana Koffler Boyman as director and past chair, and the keen championship of present Board Chair, Helen Burstyn, CM.