Tucked into downtown Edmonton’s Churchill Square, the Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA) stands as a beacon of creativity, culture, and architectural brilliance. Established in 1924, the AGA is Alberta’s oldest cultural institution dedicated exclusively to visual art. The gallery offers a striking blend of contemporary Canadian artwork, rotating international exhibitions, and community engagement, all housed within one of Canada’s most visually compelling buildings.
For nearly a century, the AGA has evolved alongside the city of Edmonton—growing from a small regional gallery into a renowned center for creativity and dialogue. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning art lover, the gallery provides a space where Alberta’s landscapes, people, and voices come to life through powerful visual storytelling. This blog will guide you through its history, exhibitions, architectural design, programming, and practical visiting tips—so you can fully appreciate this remarkable cultural institution.
A Storied Past: The History of the Art Gallery of Alberta
The journey of the Art Gallery of Alberta began in 1924 when it was founded as the Edmonton Museum of Arts. Originally located in the Civic Block of Edmonton’s downtown, the gallery’s goal was to cultivate appreciation for fine arts in Alberta. By 1969, the gallery had evolved and been renamed the Edmonton Art Gallery, reflecting its growing influence in Western Canada’s cultural landscape.
The early 2000s brought a turning point. In 2005, the gallery was renamed the Art Gallery of Alberta, broadening its scope to better represent the entire province. The most significant transformation came in 2010 with the unveiling of a brand-new facility—an 85,000-square-foot architectural masterpiece designed by world-renowned architect Randall Stout. The redesign gave the AGA a distinct identity, with a futuristic structure that pays tribute to Alberta’s natural beauty and energy.
Today, the gallery is more than just an exhibition space. It’s a vibrant hub that bridges history, community, and the ever-evolving world of visual art. From its modest beginnings to its modern-day prominence, the AGA’s legacy continues to grow.
Exhibitions and Collections: A Rich Tapestry of Art
One of the Art Gallery of Alberta’s defining strengths is its diverse and rotating exhibition program. The gallery hosts up to 30 exhibitions per year, ensuring there’s always something new to explore. These exhibitions range from classic Canadian works to bold contemporary installations, offering a comprehensive look at the visual arts both locally and globally.
The AGA’s permanent collection includes more than 6,000 works, emphasizing Canadian art with a special focus on Alberta-based and Western Canadian artists. Notable names include:
- Emily Carr – renowned for her forest scenes and Indigenous village paintings.
- Illingworth Kerr – celebrated for his prairie-themed works.
- Alex Janvier – one of the founding members of the Indian Group of Seven.
Rotating exhibitions often explore compelling social themes such as migration, climate change, feminism, and Indigenous identity. Past exhibitions like Turbulent Landings and BorderLINE have garnered attention for their thought-provoking installations and emotional depth.
Whether you’re drawn to traditional landscapes or experimental video art, the AGA’s curatorial range ensures there’s something to spark your imagination.
Architecture That Inspires: A Work of Art in Itself
The Art Gallery of Alberta’s building isn’t just a home for art—it’s a piece of art. When the new structure opened in 2010, it marked a bold reimagining of what an art gallery could be. Designed by Los Angeles-based architect Randall Stout, the building reflects both Edmonton’s urban energy and the natural forces that shape Alberta.
Its most iconic feature is the 190-meter-long steel ribbon that wraps around the building, designed to symbolize the Aurora Borealis and the flowing North Saskatchewan River. The interplay of glass, metal, and natural light creates an immersive, almost theatrical experience for visitors.
Inside, the gallery features:
- Three levels of exhibition space
- A glass atrium that floods the interior with sunlight
- The Ledcor Theatre, used for films and performances
- Rooftop patios offering stunning views of downtown Edmonton
The building’s sustainable design elements also reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship. For architecture lovers, the AGA is worth a visit even before you step inside its galleries.
Programs and Events: Engaging the Community Through Art
The Art Gallery of Alberta isn’t just a space for viewing art—it’s a place to engage with it. The gallery offers a wide range of programs and events that invite people of all ages and skill levels to participate in the creative process.
Youth & Family Programs:
- ArtBreak Camps during school holidays offer fun, hands-on activities.
- Storytime Art for toddlers encourages early artistic exploration.
- Studio Y connects teens with practicing artists for mentorship and collaboration.
Adult Learning & Workshops:
- Drop-in Drawing Nights encourage casual, skill-building art sessions.
- Studio Saturdays offer instructor-led classes on painting, mixed media, and sculpture.
- Talks and Panels with curators and artists dive into the ideas behind current exhibitions.
Special Events:
- Refinery Parties turn the gallery into a nightlife venue with DJs, drinks, and art.
- Late Night Thursdays offer extended hours and live music.
- Film screenings and artist performances regularly animate the Ledcor Theatre.
These programs not only nurture creativity—they help build a vibrant, inclusive art community in Alberta.
Visitor Information: Plan Your AGA Experience
Whether you’re visiting from out of town or planning a weekend outing, the Art Gallery of Alberta offers a seamless visitor experience with amenities that enhance your time at the gallery.
Location:
2 Sir Winston Churchill Square, Edmonton, AB T5J 2C1
Centrally located and easily accessible by public transit (Churchill LRT Station).
Opening Hours:
- Wednesday – Sunday: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Thursdays: Extended hours until 7:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Admission:
- Adults: $14
- Seniors/Students: $10
- Youth (6–17): $6
- Children (under 6): Free
- Members: Free
- Free Admission: Last Thursday of every month (4 PM – 7 PM)
On-site Amenities:
- ZINC Restaurant: A fine-dining experience with locally inspired cuisine.
- AGA Shop: Books, art prints, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.
- Accessibility: Fully wheelchair-accessible with elevators and restrooms.
You can also rent art through the Art Rental and Sales Gallery, supporting local artists and taking home a piece of Alberta’s creative spirit.
Final Thoughts: Why the Art Gallery of Alberta Matters
The Art Gallery of Alberta is not just a building filled with art—it’s a cultural cornerstone of Edmonton and a proud symbol of Alberta’s commitment to creative expression. With its ever-changing exhibitions, iconic architecture, community-focused programming, and deep ties to Canadian art history, the AGA offers more than just an aesthetic experience—it offers reflection, connection, and inspiration.
Whether you’re exploring with family, attending a creative workshop, or simply soaking in the latest exhibitions, the AGA offers something meaningful for everyone. It invites you not just to look at art—but to think, feel, and engage with it.
If you’re in Edmonton or planning a trip to Alberta, make time to experience the AGA. It’s a place where art meets life—and where every visit offers a new way to see the world.