Unseen Worlds brings art and SickKids research together in a new public exhibition
Summary:
Science and art collide in a unique experience at OCAD University November 16-27, with a special all-ages Family Day event on November 21.
A single cancer cell on the spinal cord. A retina's inner landscapes. Networks of neurons lighting up as memories are made. These are some of the rarely seen worlds of children’s health research in Unseen Worlds: Revealing the Science of Healthier Futures, a free public exhibition from The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) Research Institute and OCAD University, open November 16-27.
Created in collaboration with OCAD U, Unseen Worlds brings together scientific images, videos and artworks from more than 50 SickKids research labs with original works by seven OCAD U artists. Together, they offer new ways to explore the science behind children’s health.
From the smallest details inside our cells to breakthrough ideas that could transform care, Unseen Worlds shines a light on fascinating research and the promise of Precision Child Health.
Plan your visit
Everyone is welcome to attend this unique, temporary exhibition in downtown Toronto:
- Where: OCAD University Great Hall, 100 McCaul Street (2nd floor)
- When: November 16 to 27, 2026
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 8 p.m.
- Family Day: Saturday, November 21, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Admission: Free, open to all ages.
Join a special Family Day celebration on Nov. 21
On Saturday, November 21, families are invited to experience Unseen Worlds during a special SickKids-hosted Family Day.
From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., visitors can explore the exhibition, meet some of the SickKids scientists and OCAD U artists behind the work, and take part in hands-on, family-friendly activities.
Where science and art meet
Across the SickKids Research Institute, more than 3,400 researchers are working to better understand child health and disease, from the fundamental biology of cells and the brain to new approaches to diagnosis and treatment. Unseen Worlds offers a window into some of that research and the ideas and questions behind it.
Featuring work from six SickKids research programs alongside pieces developed in response by OCAD U students and recent graduates, the exhibition pairs scientific perspectives with artistic interpretations, offering visitors new ways to engage with the research.
“Both art and science invite us to look at the world differently, explore what we don’t yet understand and imagine what might be possible,” says SickKids Chief of Research Dr. Stephen Scherer. “At SickKids, we believe research should be accessible, engaging and connected to the communities it serves. This exhibition reflects that commitment by inviting families and the wider community to engage with research and imagine healthier futures for children and youth.”
“As OCAD U celebrates 150 years of advancing art, design and culture, we reaffirm the vital role artists play in helping society see the world differently, ask new questions and make sense of complex challenges,” said OCAD U President and Vice-Chancellor Ana Serrano. “Our collaboration with SickKids demonstrates the value of bringing creative and scientific perspectives together to expand our understanding of health and well-being and imagine new possibilities for the future.”
Explore 'Unseen Worlds'
