The Art Gallery of Ontario’s (AGO) latest exhibit The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century proves that Hip Hop is more than a genre—it’s a force of nature.
This bold new showcase dives deep into the roots, traditions, and influence of Hip Hop, serving as both a celebration and a reflection on how it’s shaped the world.
I sat in on a conversation between Toronto radio personality Master T, AGO curator Julie Crooks, and one of the main curators behind the installation, Andrea Purnell from the Saint Louis Art Museum, prior to the exibit’s opening last weekend.
Purnell, one of the four main forces behind the inception of the show, shared that the exhibit started with a different name.
“We were going to call the show All Eyez On Me,” a reference to Tupac Shakur’s iconic album, however discpreancies with the late rapper’s estate led the team in a different direction for the title.
“It’s about the culture, the heartbeat of so many traditions, the origin of so much that inspires today,” Purnell elaborated.
And just like that, The Culture was born, with a mission to show how Hip Hop has evolved beyond music into a movement that influences art, fashion, and even politics.
A Journey Through Beats, Bars, and Legacy
The exhibit doesn’t hold back. It starts with Hip Hop’s humble beginnings in the Bronx and takes visitors on a ride through its evolution into a global phenomenon. There’s a graffiti covered car, archival footage of legendary breakdancers, and even nods to hip hop’s unexpected influence on contemporary art.
One standout section, Ascension, offers a reflective moment.
“It’s a quiet space,” said Crooks, “a chance to think about those we’ve lost and those who continue to carry the torch forward.” It’s equal parts heavy and hopeful, much like the genre itself.
And let’s talk about the women. The exhibit doesn’t shy away from highlighting how women have been integral to Hip Hop’s story.
“Women have always been there, but they haven’t always been recognized,” Crooks noted. “We wanted to make sure their voices weren’t just included but amplified.”
My personal favorite addition is the salute to Lil’ Kim, an iconic femme fatale of 90s rap, adorned with a section showcasing replicas of her famous wigs (yes, even the Versace one.)
But this isn’t just an American story. The Culture spans the globe, featuring artists from places like Germany and Toronto itself. It’s a reminder that Hip Hop isn’t bound by geography—it’s a language that speaks to anyone who’s ever wanted to tell their story.
“Hip Hop has truly influenced contemporary art,” says Purnell. “It’s limitless. It’s about tradition, but also reinvention. It’s about people who’ve been overlooked finding their moment to shine.”
When asked by Purnell about what the exhibit meant to rap connoisseur Mister T, the local radio star paused for a moment to think on his response.
“It feels amazing knowing that I’m part of a bigger community,” he says, “I’m very proud to be standing here today.”
Why You Need to Go
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the greats like Tupac and Biggie, or a casual listener who discovered Hip Hop through the likes of some awful Soundcloud trap rapper, The Culture has something for you. It’s a celebration of the music that has provoked us for decades, and it’s really not going anywhere.
Or, as Purnell put it: “This exhibit isn’t just about starting a conversation—it’s about continuing it. Hip Hop has always been about resilience, creativity, and community. We hope The Culture reflects that.”
So, perhaps head to the AGO for a dose of nostalgia, inspiration, and maybe a little head-bobbing. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for why Hip Hop isn’t just a genre—it’s the culture.
The exhibit is now open and will wrap up on April 6, 2025. The entirety of the exhibit is located on the fifth floor of the AGO. Entry is included with admission to the AGO.
