Designed by Ottawa’s premier architecture firm, Hobin Architecture, the new SPAO Centre building officially opened its doors to the public in fall 2017.


The nondescript warehouse at 77 Pamilla St underwent a purpose-built renovation, converting it into a unique cultural amenity for the National Captial Region.

The SPAO Centre is located on the traditional, unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe peoples. We honour and respect their cultures and ongoing presence as people who have nurtured and continue to nurture this land since time immemorial.

Video by Susannah Heath-Eves with music by Shane Mendonsa.

Nestled in the heart of Little Italy, SPAO’s purpose-built facility is specifically designed for all levels of photographic techniques. Our ground level and wheelchair-accessible space is comprised of a large studio/lecture space and gallery, perfect for hosting events of many types.

 

SPAO Gallery

The SPAO Centre is also home to the Ottawa region's only independent and critical gallery space dedicated to photographic and video art, free for the public and wheelchair accessible.

The SPAO Centre is also home to the Ottawa region's only independent and critical gallery space dedicated to
photographic and video art, free for the public and wheelchair accessible.

Media Lab

On the second floor our media lab is equipped with inkjet printmaking capabilities including large format printers, a drum scanner and flatbed scanners.

SPAO Studio

Our studio is equipped with industry standard lighting, camera and support equipment for shooting in a large studio and a selection of 35mm, medium and large format cameras available to full-time students.

Library

SPAO prides itself on one of the largest photobook collections in the Ottawa region, thanks in a large part to the generosity and commitment of its community.

SPAO Darkroom

SPAO’s multi-station, multi-format darkroom for both silver gelatin and alternative printmaking, allows for comprehensive study and technical instruction in historic and alternative photographic processes.

Garden

Accompanying the indoor gallery space is the Photo-Synthesis Garden, a unique outdoor exhibition space juxtaposing photographic arts with the natural world.

 
 

NOW AVAILABLE: SPAO STUDIO RENTALS

Our studio is now open for private rentals on Sundays — offering photographers a spacious, well-equipped environment to bring their vision to life.

Whatever you're shooting, our studio's got the space and gear to support your project.

    • $70/hour (2-hour minimum)

    • Half-Day Flat Rate: $250 (4 hours)

    • 500ft2 Studio space with two windows (north-east-facing with blackout curtains)

    • General studio equipment is available such as backdrops, light stands, modifiers, gels, and grip accessories, tripods and a studio stand, apple boxes, and much more. (For a full list of equipment please email us.)

    • Additional equipment may be available to rent, including lighting kits, digital cameras, and large format film cameras (4x5 and 8x10) — please inquire for details and pricing.

To book a session or ask about available equipment and pricing, please email part-time@spao.ca.

The SPAO Photographic Arts Centre boasts a spacious multifunctional studio and the Ottawa region's only independent and critical gallery space dedicated to lens-based art. A modern space with cement floors + white walls, the SPAO Centre is perfect for private film screenings, small receptions, engagement parties, VIP cocktail or dinner parties, and a variety of other events that suit the contemporary studio.

A basic facility booking package includes access to three spaces: the Photo-Synthesis Garden patio, the SPAO Centre gallery, and the multifunctional studio with unique event lighting. After you’ve downloaded our floor plan and our rate sheet for details, fill out the form below or contact us at gallery@spao.ca to learn more and get started!

More Information

Is the SPAO Photographic Arts Centre right for you and your event? Check out our floor plan and rates before renting.