Torontoist recently paid a visit to the Montrose Portrait Gallery of Canada. Started by former Torontoist editor Sarah Lazarovic, the gallery opened just a few weeks ago in her garage. Already, the collection boasts about thirty pieces by various artists and illustrators. With the Conservative government still reviewing plans to find a home for the Portrait Gallery of Canada's collection, Sarah took matters into her own hands. "We want a portrait gallery all the same, and we feel we can build one using elbow grease instead of forty-five million dollars."

After admiring the portraits and enjoying a complimentary cherry popsicle, Torontoist was curious about long-term plans for the "gallerage." According to a gallery spokesperson, future portrait exhibitions are being considered. For now, the gallery is open by appointment, and can be contacted by e-mailing montrose@theportraitgallery.ca.

UPDATE: The Montrose Portrait Gallery of Canada will be open Sunday August 19 from 1–4 p.m.

Photos by Kevin McBride.