Forgetus Collective, finally a sincere approach to propagating the the enigmatic visions of the city’s fledgling talents. Inspired by the 1970′s Punk/New Wave movement in New York, the 1990′s YBAs in London and current DIY art spaces of Toronto, Forgetus intends to provide a medium for artists to create, voice and share their inventiveness.

The name Forgetus Collective derives from the memory of a bequeathed space that the two co-founders, Cia Mellegers and Dylan Thompson, once shared and now have immortalized in flesh and name. The “Forgetus moniker is one that Dylan dreamed up years ago, and proceeded to get a stick-and-poke tattoo of it.” says Mellegers.

“The idea behind it has to do with impermanence. So much about our lives and the world around us is constantly moving and evolving, and so many of our experiences and relationships are ephemeral. It’s about living in the moment and trying to engage with something special while we can, and if it’s forgotten tomorrow, we’ll just have to move on and make something new.” The name was expanded to “Forgetus Collective” to describe how the space will exhibit art. It is not just a hook-and-wire art gallery, it is an collaboration and progressive augmentation of creative ideas.

Spatially, the venue is unlike other contemporary galleries. A multi-roomed layout provides ample wall space and ability to host multiple artists. Perched above Queen West and just a little-ways elevated over Dundas West, Forgetus holds an industrial vibe and smells of chocolate from the neighboring Hershey factory. The panorama from the large patio expands the show into anecdotal view of the city. Mellegers relishes in the thought of late-night events and stepping out of the typical “gallery-opening mold”.

The gallery’s isolated location promotes little foot traffic, so shows are promoted through word-of-mouth and internet postings. The doors open on an event basis only but anyone can arrange a private viewing by contacting Forgetus through email. Events will be posted on the Forgetus website, through Facebook and through the grapevine.