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Black Diamond (Diamond Valley
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Must See Art Galleries
Art has the ability to tell a million stories with just one picture, one sculpture, or one painting. Most everyone will interpret a piece differently and find something that their companion didn’t. Southern Alberta brims with artistic culture, having everything from lush prairie fields to harsh mountaintops to serve as inspiration. This list will take you to some of southern Alberta’s best galleries, but more importantly, showcase some of the province’s hidden gems.
Akokiniskway Gallery, Rosebud
For such a tiny place, the quaint hamlet of Rosebud is truly bursting with artistic culture. It’s one of the best stops for live theatre and home to the Rosebud Opera House. Just one block away in the historic United Church, the Akokiniskway Gallery features solely Alberta artists. The gallery opens 2.5 hr before performances at the Rosebud Theatre so it is best experienced as a little pre-show entertainment!
Bluerock Gallery, Black Diamond
Nestled in the foothills, Bluerock Gallery is a sure thing stop. The gallery represents close to 200 local artists in mediums such as pottery, jewelry, and handcrafted wood furniture, as well as mixed media. Stop by on a Thursday from 6-9 pm for their free Drop-In Art Nights where they host workshops and other events. Not too far from Calgary, this gallery is packed with Alberta history in every art form imaginable.
The Esplanade, Medicine Hat
Since 2005, the Esplanade has been Medicine Hat’s cultural centre boasting a museum, theatre, and art gallery. With more than 3000 ft 2 of gallery space, this is arguably one of southern Alberta’s largest. It features 10-12 travelling exhibitions on a yearly basis, from local to international artists. In addition to their touring exhibitions, they maintain a some permanent art collection for visitors to see year-round. For those looking to see art on a grand scale, this is your place.
Lineham House Galleries, Okotoks
This gallery lives and breathes historic Alberta. It is located in the original house of the Okotoks’ founding family in Olde Town. This gallery features southern Alberta artists and artisans. On the main floor, visitors can view the group shows of artists featured that quarter and browse artisanal items for sale. The second floor is home to the gallery’s associate artists who often work on-site. Stop by at the right time and you may get to chat one-on-one with an artist!
Garside Art Gallery & Studio, Longview
If you are journeying along The Cowboy Trail, take a pit stop at the Garside Art Gallery & Studio. The gallery features the permanent collection of artist Debra Garside. This includes her popular photography series Wild Horses of Sable Island, the Streets of Longview Projects, Polar Bears, and her bronze statues. Guest artists of various mediums are also featured in this charming gallery.
Bluerock Gallery
Lineham House Galleries
Lebel Mansion/Allied Arts Council, Pincher Creek
Declared a Historical Resource in 1976, the Lebel Mansion has been a Pincher Creek landmark since its inception in 1910. First the private residence ofTimothee Lebel and then turned into a municipal hospital, it is now home to the Allied Arts Council. The building offers a free public art gallery, pottery studio, community classes, and gift shop selling local arts. If you’ve been before, a new exhibit arrives every month, keeping the gallery fresh for any returnees.
Mosaic Art & Gift Gallery, Nanton
An eclectic stop for the true art lover, this is a vibrant gallery filled with a variety of work. Inside, you’ll find the creations of resident artists Barb Curle and Paul Canfield with art ranging from stained glass, tattoos, to paintings and everything in between. However, they might be most notable for the building’s exterior, an ongoing project to completely cover the front façade with a stained glass mosaic. For a little bit of light, make sure to stop by and absorb the positive vibe of this gallery.
Launstein Imagery Wildlife Art Gallery, Blairmore
One of the newer galleries on the scene, Launstein Imagery Wildlife Art Gallery opened in 2016. From bears, bighorn sheep, to small marmots, the gallery features the work of the Launstein family and the wildlife they find in the Crowsnest Pass area. The love of animals is written across every photo, with captured moments that must have taken hours of patience.
If visiting any of these galleries in the winter, be sure to check for winter hours as many small galleries and studios close down or limit their hours during the colder months. Happy viewing! Photos and Story By: Holly Heuver
For even more Art Galleries Visit
TheMostBeautifulArtTourInAlberta.com
THE LEBEL
Featuring Pincher Creek’s array of Art, Culture & History - The Lebel offers a range of programs that cater to a spectrum of skill levels. This experience is positively unique to each individual that walks through the door. Featuring over 60 local artists, the Lebel’s energy is humbling and authentic.
