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A surprising international world of art in Lethbridge
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Picasso, Matisse, Carr and Thomson among 15,000 works of art
By Paula Worthington
The University of Lethbridge Art Gallery is likely the only place in the world where you can see works by famed Canadian artist, Bill Reid next to a Picasso… yes, a real Picasso.
Forget the halls of the Louvre or National Art Gallery, Lethbridge is home to national and international art treasures, which can be explored for free.
Some of these exhibit masterpieces are thanks to a generous donation by Dr. Margaret (Marmie) Perkins Hess, who gifted more than 1,000 pieces from her collection, including Canadian icons like Tom Thomson, Emily Carr and members of the Group of Seven, First Nations and Inuit artists, and of course, Picasso and Matisse.
Photo:
Paula Worthington
No crowds, no flashing bulbs. Just you, the art, and endless contemplation.
While the gallery can only showcase a certain number of pieces at any given time, the entire collection is accessible to the public. According to David Smith, U of L Art Gallery Assistant Curator, “We have more than 15,000 pieces, all searchable in an online database, and we can provide access to any piece the public wants to see.” says Smith. Their team is still going through the huge collection it has received, and pieces are regularly changed in the gallery, making a repeat visit necessary for art lovers.
Visiting the gallery also gives you the chance to explore the university – a piece of art all on its own. Where else can you enter from the parking lot, and travel down to the 11th floor? Designed by renowned architect Arthur Erickson, the main University Hall blends seamlessly as it sits perched on the edge of the city’s grand river valley. Its art gallery is small and unassuming but is home to one of the largest post-secondary collections in Canada – and Picasso.
Learn more about Lethbridge's:
- Vibrant Downtown
- Nikka Yuko Garden
- Golfing Opportunities
Photo:
Paula Worthington
Lethbridge ’s downtown core has its share of emerging and established art talent too. The Southern Alberta Art Gallery, known as “SAAG” by the locals, is housed in a beautiful historic-meets-new building on the edge of downtown’s Galt Gardens. It features contemporary exhibits and a creative centre where visitors can practice their own artistic skills.
Not to be missed is the SAAG’s store, which features locally made items. “Many of our items are unique and one of a kind, giving a direct link to the local artists’ community,” says Jon Martin, communications coordinator for the SAAG. “People love to visit our exhibits, but also come in to shop, or attend one of our many events throughout the year.”
Not sure about contemporary art? Martin has some advice for first-timers: “It’s OK to have an opinion – art should be fun and it’s for everyone.”
A quick walk from the SAAG is CASA, the home for the arts in Southern Alberta. The bright, open building covers all the arts, from hobbyists to professionals. Wander the halls to see art on display, or shop unique, local items for sale. They run artisan markets throughout the year, where artists exhibit and sell their art.
Great art, interesting topics, few crowds and local talent; these are just a few of the many reasons to think “art” when you think of Lethbridge.
If You Go
Lethbridge is about a two-hour drive south of Calgary.
Learn more about BucketlistAB here.
Check Tourism Lethbridge to start planning your trip and find other activities in the area.
Travel Alberta also has lots of great information about things to do and places to see in the Lethbridge area.
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