The first major exhibition presented by the Ryerson Gallery and Research Centre before opening in September 2012, Oil celebrates the work of Ryerson University alumnus and Honorary Doctorate recipient Edward Burtynsky.

Edward Burtynsky: Oil is an examination of one the most important subjects of our time by one of the most respected and recognized contemporary photographers in the world. His images explore the hotly-debated effects of oil extraction, our international dependency on the substance, and with an unflinching eye, Burtynsky presents us with the reality of oil production as its role in our civilization undergoes massive transformation.

Edward Burtynsky: Oil is presented by the Ryerson Gallery and Research Centre, Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival, and Scotiabank Group, hosted at the Institute of Contemporary Culture at the Royal Ontario Museum April 9 – August 21, 2011.

Edward Burtynsky: Oil is organised by the Corcoran Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C., and made possible with the generous support of the Scotiabank Group.

Featured Image (top): Shipbreaking #13- Chittagong, Bangladesh, 2000- © Edward Burtynsky, courtesy Nicholas Metivier Gallery, Toronto