Visitor Code of Conduct

At the Art Gallery Hamilton, we are deeply committed to fostering an environment where everyone is treated with respect, dignity, and fairness. We strive to create a safer, more welcoming, and accessible space for all, recognizing that true inclusivity is built through continuous dialogue with our community.

Anyone whose conduct is abusive, disruptive or disrespectful may be asked to leave the Gallery.

Guidelines Regarding Visitor Conduct

Each person who chooses to enter the Gallery is asked to follow the guidelines governing personal conduct and admissibility listed below.

Before you visit the Gallery, please be aware of the following general conditions:

Children under the age of twelve (12) must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian while at the Gallery. Those under the age of six (6) must be supervised by a parent or legal guardian at all times.

Protecting the Art

Please do not touch the artwork. Keep a safe distance of 1m (39 in.) between you and the works of art. Please do not run in the Gallery.

Bags & Knapsacks

Visitors may carry one bag plus a personal item, such as a purse or diaper bag. The combined size of these bags cannot exceed 45 x 40 x 15 cm (18 x 16 x 6 in.). Bags cannot be carried on your back. Bags, knapsacks, briefcases and parcels larger than 45 x 40 x 15 cm (18 x 16 x 6 in.) are not permitted in the galleries. All umbrellas longer than 45 cm (18 in.) must be left at coat check. Complimentary service is provided for all prohibited items.

Food and Drink

Food and drink are not permitted in the Galleries. Sealed water bottles and baby bottles are allowed into gallery spaces but must be consumed in non-art spaces.

Photography

The AGH allows non-flash photography for personal use only, except where indicated. The use of selfie sticks, tripods, and monopods within the exhibition space is prohibited. We ask that you respect the rights of artists and their representatives under Canadian copyright law. For more information, review information on Canadian copyright law.

Cell Phones

Please turn your cell phone to the vibrate setting and be respectful of other visitors when using your cell phone. We ask you to step out of the exhibition galleries if you must use your phone.

Sketching & Note-Taking

Sketching and note-taking is permitted in the Gallery except where indicated. Sketchpads and notebooks must be 35 x 25 cm (14 x 10 in.) or smaller. Please use pencil only (no pens or charcoal).

Wheels

Strollers are welcome in gallery spaces, except for double-wide or sport strollers. Or you may leave your stroller in our coat room. Children’s wagons or buggies that are pulled behind the visitor are not permitted in Gallery spaces.

Bikes, helmets, skateboards, skate shoes, rollerblades and scooters are not permitted. Where possible, these items can be stored in lockers free of charge, located in the Coat room adjacent to the Visitor Services desk.

Video Surveillance & Searches

For the protection of visitors, staff and works of art, the Gallery is monitored by video surveillance. The Gallery reserves the right to inspect bags, packages, and personal belongings upon entry or exit.

Accessibility: Exceptions for Prohibited Items

Visitors to the AGH are now allowed to carry certain prohibited items into the galleries for specific medical conditions in accordance with our Accessibility Policy. These items may include water bottles, oversize bags with medical supplies, liquid medicines or other items.

The Visitors Services staff at the front desk will approve visitors requests and will affix a visible sticker AGH to the prohibited item(s) so that other staff throughout the Gallery will know permission has been given.

SERVICE ANIMALS

Service animals are welcome in all Gallery spaces. Each animal must be clearly identified by visual indicators such as a vest or harness. Other animals are not permitted in the building. For more detail please refer to our policy.

Public safety and admissibility

Visitors may not engage in any activity that could be perceived as a performance or that draws undue attention to themselves. Speeches, declarations, media events, or staged photo opportunities are not permitted without prior approval from the Gallery.

Weapons of any kind—including firearms, knives, blades, blunt objects, pepper spray, or pyrotechnics such as fireworks and firecrackers—are strictly prohibited. Open flames are also not allowed

Aggressive, harassing, or threatening behavior; the use of lewd or offensive language; and any display of hate-related symbols or expressions of hatred toward individuals, groups, or Gallery staff will result in removal from the premises.

The use or abuse of illegal drugs, alcohol, or controlled substances is prohibited. Anyone appearing intoxicated or under the influence will be asked to leave.

All visitors must wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Costumes or masks that conceal identity are not permitted except those that cover the mouth and nose for health/medical reasons. Clothing worn as part of recognized religious practices is allowed.

Loitering, vending, soliciting, petitioning, demonstrating, distributing unsolicited materials, or obstructing entrances or exits is not allowed.