The Small Arms Inspection Building (SAIB) is located on the 15.7-hectare parcel of land known as the Arsenal Lands on the eastern border of Mississauga’s waterfront. In 1940, the site became a large munitions plant manufacturing rifles and small arms for the Canadian Army through the Second World War until 1974. Small Arms Limited played a critical role for women, who made up about two-thirds of the factory’s workforce. This was critical to changing the role of women and recognizing their significance to the workforce in Canada.
Designated as a heritage building in 2008, the City of Mississauga acquired ownership of SAIB in 2017, and together with the Small Arms Society, has since transformed the building into a collaborative space for creative activity. This multi-purpose, historic building presents a wide range of arts programs and provides much needed rental space for cultural organizations and the community. As the only cultural hub of its kind in Mississauga, the SAIB supports meaningful audience engagement through dynamic exhibitions, events and experiences.
The Toronto Biennial of Art will be hosted at SAIB from September 21 – December 1. This 72-day event will include 20 new commissions and more than 100 works installed across 10 sites including SAIB. Find out more at torontobiennial.org.
*Partial Wheelchair Access
