Arts and Culture Attractions

Southern Alberta Art Gallery

Name: Southern Alberta Art Gallery
Address: 601 3 Ave S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 0H4, Lethbridge, AB, CA
Telephone: 4033278770
Rating: 5.0

With rotating exhibitions showcasing the best of local, domestic, and international artists, the gallery fosters the work of contemporary artists who challenge boundaries.SAAG exhibits some of the most compelling contemporary art from around the region and across the country, encouraging public engagement and promoting exploration of artistic expression. It is housed in the historic Lethbridge Library and hosts rotating shows in its larger gallery rooms; there's also an art library and gift shop open year-round near the front entrance.Keep an eye out for the many events and programs throughout the year, including Spring and Christmas markets, Art and Culture Days, the SAAG Social, and an annual art auction.

601 3 Ave S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 0H4

About Southern Alberta Art Gallery

The Southern Alberta Art Gallery (SAAG) is currently undergoing an exciting revitalization and expansion. During construction, SAAG remains fully operational through SAAG IN THE CITY, with exhibitions, programs, and events taking place across three temporary locations throughout Lethbridge: SAAG Acadia, SAAG Express, and SAAG x Excite. Visitors can continue to experience contemporary art while the gallery's renewed home in Galt Gardens takes shape.

Learn more on their website

The Southern Alberta Art Gallery Maansiksikaitsitapiitsinikssin (often referred to as SAAG) is a contemporary art gallery in Lethbridge. For almost 50 years, the Gallery has been an important centre for contemporary art in Canada, sharing timely, inspiring exhibitions by local, national and international artists and programming with communities across the region. With a mission to foster the work of artists who challenge boundaries, there's always something new and exciting to see at SAAG.

History

As a collaborative effort of local citizens, artists, and the Lethbridge City Council, SAAG was established in 1976 to showcase contemporary art of national and international significance in southern Alberta. In doing so, the Gallery has exhibited some of Canada's most important artists, often in the beginning stages of their careers.

In 2020, the Gallery received its Blackfoot name from local Kainai Elders. The name Maansiksikaitsitapiitsinikssin refers to the new making of images, related to the telling of our Blackfoot peoples' stories.

Getting There

The Southern Alberta Art Gallery is housed in Lethbridge's first purpose-built Public Library, at 601 3 Ave S, right in the heart of downtown Lethbridge and on the south side of Galt Gardens, the City's major downtown park. It is easily accessible by bus. The Gallery does not offer visitor parking. Ample paid street parking is available surrounding the Gallery along 3 Ave and throughout downtown, including the parkade on 5th Ave S., between 8th Ave and 9th Ave, which is only a five-minute stroll through downtown on your way over.

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When to Go

SAAG is open year-round. There is free admission on the first Friday of every month, excluding statutory holidays and installation closures. Closed Sundays and Mondays, the Gallery is open Tuesdays and Wednesday 12 - 5 p.m., Thursday and Friday 11a.m - 7 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

What's There

You'll find three exhibition spaces at SAAG, as well as the Shop at SAAG, which sells unique items by Canadian designers and artisans. All public spaces and galleries at SAAG are wheelchair accessible. There is also an art library on-site.

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Things to Do

Explore the Southern Alberta Art Gallery's three gallery spaces for the latest exhibits. Featuring some of the most groundbreaking artists from around Alberta, Canada, and the world, the exhibits rotate quarterly, so there's always something new to see.

Also, be sure to check out the excellent gift shop, where you'll find an incredible array of Canadian-made items for sale, including jewelry, prints, textiles, ceramics, and more. The Shop at SAAG Feature Artist program offers local artists a unique opportunity to exhibit and sell their work in a contemporary art gallery, so it's a great opportunity to snag a one-of-a-kind piece.

Finally, keep an eye out for the numerous events and programs that happen throughout the year, including guest speakers, workshops, special tours, markets, art and culture days, and special events, including the long-running annual Art Auction fundraiser.