Art lovers now have multiple ways to experience one of Trent’s most distinctive artistic treasures, the Patterson-Ainsley Collection – a purposefully curated collection of 47 blown-glass pieces, mixed-media creations, paintings, and photography.  

The collection, the first permanent collection of its kind and size to be donated to Trent, is on display across both campuses and in a new online gallery, helping make art more accessible to the Trent community and beyond.  

“Universities are spaces for opening minds, and art is one of the most powerful ways to do that,” says Dr. Suzanne Bailey, chair of the Trent University Art Collection Presidential Advisory Committee. “By making this collection available online, we’re extending that experience of reflection and learning beyond our campuses.” 

Established in 2019 through the generosity of David ’66, ’14 (hon.) and Anne Patterson, the Patterson-Ainsley Collection was curated by Sandra and Daniel Ainsley of Toronto’s renowned Sandra Ainsley Gallery. The collection features large-scale glass sculptures, distinctive smaller pieces, contemporary paintings, and photographs by prominent artists, and is the largest collection of its kind at a Canadian University.  

As one of the newest additions to Trent’s growing art collection, the Patterson-Ainsley Collection builds on an initiative that began in 1963. Today, there are nearly 1,000 works in the Trent University Art Collection and Public Sculpture Initiative, many of which are accessible to view in public spaces across Trent’s campuses. 

The 47 items from the Patterson-Ainsley Collection are on display in both Peterborough and Durham, enriching spaces such as Bata Library, Blackburn Hall, Athletics Centre, the Colleges, and Trent Durham Building B. 

Visit the Patterson-Ainsley Collection online gallery.