Art Gallery of Alberta
If you’re standing in Churchill Square, you can’t miss the striking Art Gallery of Alberta, wrapped with silver ribbons representing the aurora borealis and the North Saskatchewan River. Since it opened in its new home in 2010, the AGA has hosted a number of major exhibitions – great collections from Degas, works from the Dutch masters and an Andy Warhol retrospective. Inside you’ll find a number of galleries spread over three floors. The BMO World of Creativity, located on the main floor, is an interactive spot for families to immerse themselves in art. Zip up to the third floor to see more experimental and modern shows, then venture onto the adjoining rooftop patio for a great Downtown view. 2 Sir Winston Churchill Square
Latitude 53
Latitude 53 is very focused on contemporary, Canadian artists who like to take risks. This gallery is a big advocate for local artists and feature exhibits that inspire and spark curiosity. The gallery is also one of Canada’s oldest artist-run centres dedicated to supporting artists. 10242 106 Street
Ociciwan Contemporary Arts Collective
Since its formation years ago, the Ociciwan Contemporary Arts Collective has been homeless, this year it will open the doors in its new two-storey space located in the Quarters. Ociciwan is Edmonton’s first Indigenous run centre for contemporary art. Expect some good discussions to emerge from its innovative and experimental practices and research. 9604 101A Ave
The Alberta Craft Council
The Alberta Craft Council promotes the work of artists and artisans throughout Alberta, and has galleries and adjoining shops in both Edmonton and Calgary. There are somewhere between 15-20 exhibitions a year, and the media can range from sculpture to glass to ceramics — and anything in between. Take home a one-ofa-kind item from the shop, which features the work from over 150 Alberta artists. 10186 106 Street
Borealis Gallery
If you’re on the Alberta Legislature grounds, the Borealis Gallery is a great spot to visit that really doesn’t get the attention that it should. Admission is free, and the gallery features temporary exhibitions that highlight the province’s history. Because the gallery changes so often, it’s worth repeat visits. Past exhibitions have focused on residential schools, Alberta’s role in the First World War and the fur trade. 9820 107 Street
Mitchell Art Gallery
Located on the main floor of MacEwan University’s Allard Hall, Mitchell Art Gallery showcases the works of students from MacEwan’s arts program and also features standalone shows that are meant to start conversations about contemporary art. Past exhibitions have featured works based on motherhood, a focus on playful items and a short-film series curated by famed Edmonton filmmaker Trevor Anderson. 11110 104 Avenue