Calgary Art Gallery | Calgary

The Calgary Art Gallery, known as the Glenbow Museum until recently, is one of Calgary's most prominent cultural institutions, showcasing both local and international art. It has a rich history and a significant role in promoting the arts and culture of the city, Alberta, and Canada. The gallery focuses on a variety of art forms, from contemporary art to historical collections, and hosts a range of exhibitions, programs, and events aimed at educating and engaging the public.

However, the Glenbow Museum has recently been undergoing a significant transformation. In 2021, the Glenbow Museum closed its doors for a renovation and expansion project to evolve into a new art gallery, which is expected to reopen with a refreshed and more dynamic approach to the arts.

Key Features of the Calgary Art Gallery (formerly Glenbow Museum)

Collection of Art and Artifacts

The museum and gallery's collection has traditionally focused on Canadian and Indigenous art, as well as international art, with an emphasis on both contemporary and historical works.

Some of the notable collections include:

Indigenous Art: The gallery holds an impressive collection of Indigenous art, with pieces representing the cultures and traditions of Indigenous peoples from across Canada.

Western Canadian Art: Reflecting the history and development of Western Canada, the gallery's collection includes art from the early settlement period through to contemporary works that explore life in Alberta and the broader prairies.

International and Contemporary Art: The gallery has also displayed significant international works, including exhibitions of contemporary art, with pieces from both emerging and established artists from around the world.

Exhibitions

The gallery is known for its rotating exhibitions, which often feature major exhibitions of national and international significance, alongside smaller, curated exhibits focused on emerging artists and specific themes.

Exhibits often include a mix of painting, sculpture, photography, video art, and installation art, providing a dynamic experience for visitors with a range of artistic tastes.

The gallery has hosted exhibitions on Indigenous culture, historical themes, and contemporary issues, often involving collaborations with artists from diverse backgrounds and art forms.

Programs and Events

The Calgary Art Gallery offers a wide range of educational programs designed to engage the community. These programs may include art talks, workshops, school programs, and guided tours, which are aimed at deepening visitors' understanding of the works on display.

For families, there are often hands-on activities and family-friendly workshops, making the gallery a great destination for all ages.

The gallery also hosts special events, such as art lectures, panel discussions, and evening receptions, where visitors can meet artists and curators, further enriching the cultural experience.

Architectural Design and Space

The building housing the Calgary Art Gallery is a modern architectural space designed to facilitate a wide range of exhibits and events. It is equipped with spacious galleries, themed rooms, and areas dedicated to temporary and traveling exhibitions.

The new design will likely feature more open and flexible spaces, with an emphasis on creating an inclusive, welcoming environment for all types of art.

Public and Community Engagement

The gallery is committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and welcoming environment where local artists and the public can connect and engage with art.

It regularly features works by local artists in addition to its major exhibitions, providing an essential platform for Calgary's creative community.

Public access to art is central to the gallery’s mission, with free or discounted admission days available to ensure that everyone in the community can enjoy the exhibits and participate in the programs.

Indigenous Art Focus

One of the most significant and respected aspects of the Calgary Art Gallery's collection is its focus on Indigenous art and culture. The gallery has taken great strides to showcase art by Indigenous artists and to tell the stories of Canada’s First Nations peoples.

Through both permanent collections and temporary exhibitions, the gallery provides a space for Indigenous art, culture, and history, exploring themes of reconciliation, community, and the contemporary Indigenous experience in Canada.

Future Developments

With the ongoing renovation and expansion, the future Calgary Art Gallery will offer an even greater emphasis on interactive spaces and immersive experiences, enhancing the visitor experience and providing more opportunities for visitors to engage with the art in a hands-on way.

When completed, the new space is expected to increase its capacity for larger exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach, allowing the gallery to grow as an institution and a hub for the local and national art scene.

Visiting Information

Hours of Operation: Currently, as the gallery undergoes renovations, it is not open to the public, but it is important to keep an eye on official announcements for reopening dates and information about future exhibits.

Admission: When open, admission fees typically vary based on the exhibition, with discounts available for students, seniors, and members of the gallery.

Location: The gallery is centrally located in downtown Calgary, easily accessible by public transit and with parking available nearby.

Accessibility: The gallery is designed to be fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, and other accommodations for visitors with mobility challenges.

Conclusion

The Calgary Art Gallery (formerly the Glenbow Museum) is an essential part of Calgary’s cultural landscape, providing a space to experience art from both local and international artists. Its evolving mission, including a focus on Indigenous art and contemporary works, positions the gallery as a key institution for education, reflection, and artistic expression. Though currently undergoing an exciting transformation, the Calgary Art Gallery remains a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring art and culture in Calgary. Keep an eye out for its reopening, as it will bring a refreshed and dynamic experience for art lovers and the general public.