Art Gallery of Alberta

So lucky to be living in Edmonton and having access to this gallery. The fact that the last Thursday of every month is free is an added bonus. There’s always something interesting in each exhibit, though some are weaker than others but I’m always left inspired when I visit the gallery. There is construction in the area but finding parking nearby has never really been an issue.

I visited the Royal Alberta Museum a few days ago with my husband, and we absolutely loved it. The experience was both educational and visually stunning. We saw so many fascinating exhibits and beautiful art pieces—it was hard not to take tons of pictures! The architecture of the museum is truly something to admire. It’s modern, elegant, and incredibly well thought out. You can tell a lot of effort and creativity went into designing the space—it honestly feels like they outdid themselves. Every corner was picture-perfect and added to the overall vibe of the visit. If you’re ever in Edmonton, I highly recommend stopping by. Whether you’re into history, culture, or just looking for a unique day out, RAM delivers on all fronts. We had such a good time and left feeling inspired and impressed!

It is a great Modern Art gallery and it has definitely an impressive architectural design of the building. The variety of the pieces and themes is interesting and intriguing. The total amount of exposition halls inside was a bit smaller than expected and the total visit including buying the tickets and the lovely gift shop with local crafts took about two hours. Definitely a good visit if you love to combine a few activities in one day, but for me it was a bit too short.

The Art Gallery of Alberta is a fantastic destination that offers a unique and enriching experience. We had the opportunity to visit during the Victims of the Holocaust exhibition, which was deeply moving, as well as the Build Black Civilizations exhibit, showcasing incredible structures created with black Lego bricks. Both exhibitions were thought-provoking and beautifully presented. The gallery spans multiple floors, with the third floor housing additional captivating displays. The main floor features a charming shop with unique finds, perfect for art enthusiasts. Tickets are reasonably priced, making it an accessible and worthwhile outing. The gallery itself is clean, well-maintained, and surrounded by great amenities, including a variety of restaurants, bars, and a lovely park nearby. It’s a wonderful spot to spend your time, whether you’re exploring the exhibits, enjoying the area, or simply soaking up the creative atmosphere. Highly recommended!

A Must-Visit for Art Lovers in Edmonton! I had an amazing time at the Art Gallery of Alberta! The architecture alone is stunning, and stepping inside felt like entering a world of creativity and inspiration. The exhibitions were diverse, thought-provoking, and beautifully curated. Staff were friendly and helpful, and the overall vibe was both relaxing and engaging. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the city, this place is a gem that celebrates both contemporary and historical art. Definitely worth the visit—and perfect for a little artsy photo shoot outside too! 😊🎨✨

Excellent art space. The architecture of the building itself is also attractive. Many halls with various expositions and exhibitions. Friendly staff, the premises are spacious and clean. There is a souvenir shop on the first floor.

The 70s Silent Disco at the Art gallery was perfectly executed! This is a wonderful space to gather, dance, and enjoy a beverage.

Great place to visit after the Royal Edmonton Museum. There is a Picasso exhibition which I love. My kids enjoyed kids session.

What the living what? We were SO excited to go. The architecture of the building was the only thing worth seeing here. Ok, I lied. There was ONE piece by a little known artist that MAY have been worth seeing. I apologize if this sounds brutal but if I want to see local flavor I can go see the exhibit at the local high school or take a tour of galleries that sell these pieces. Being told that I just missed the Group of Seven and that there are some notable pieces coming in the fall... when your museum is THE museum of the province, the rich one with the oil? Get at least ONE notable name in there folks! I was SO excited to go and then SO terribly disappointed. My hopes were lifted when a person said there was a Pride film starting on the hour. We quickly abandoned the "art" viewing to go see this film and hurried to the screening room. We sat in this empty room for 15 minutes past "on the hour", by ourselves, with the film not showing yet. We felt this was incredibly disrespectful of our time and so decided to leave. As we were leaving we were told they were 'just waiting for a few more people'. Well, you HAD 2 people in there.... and then you had none. Good job. Save your money and go elsewhere it is a waste of time, the building is pretty enough on the outside. OR? Feel sorry for these folks and donate money to them so they can buy or rent something good, don't waste your vacation time going in there though, for realsies!

Me and my friends always like to stop by the gallery once every so often, students get to enjoy free admission. Just the building's architecture alone is enjoyable to look at and the gallery changes its exhibitions and the staffs are always friendly and knowledgeable about the displaying piece.

I have to say the art work was underwhelming. There was lots of space but very little to take in. I've spent more time dropping in at the art store in West Edmonton Mall, then any of those exhibits at the Art Gallery of Alberta today, ( by the way its Sterling Gallery & Framing always worth a peak if your at WEM). We have a lot of great talent in Edmonton, let alone Alberta. Can we not do better then this? Having said all that, everything else was great at this location. The architecture of the building was interesting and the inside was nice, although spacious. I did infact like some of the art work. The staff were very helpful and friendly. I thought some of the exhibits appealing to other senses was an interesting touch. They had a smell exhibit, some weak and others pungent. Also a auditory one, I listened briefly to ocean waves. The price was decent as well and I believe its free on the last Thursday of every month. Seriously though, if someone wants to open an art gallery in Etown, they might make some serious bank.

Great place! Great for kids !! The art opening are always fun and every show so far has had an interactive part to it. Really like the gallery.

I've always enjoyed my visits here. The exterior is unique and the exhibits are usually interesting. There is a enough change to warrant a visit or two a year. They offered free admission times (not sure if they still do) but it was usually packed. One staff mentioned that the attendance during free admission was equal to the total admission for the rest of the week. If you want a more personal, private experience, I would pay the fee and attend on a regular day. Personally, I like taking a moment to go out on the rooftop patio to enjoy the view of downtown. It almost feels like your breaking the rules or something. It's fun going out there.

Celebrating Canada's rich contribution to the arts, an underrated group of painters and sculptors who have come to prominence from the mid-1900's to now, the Art Gallery of Alberta presents several well-curated floors in a dynamic building that itself compels further exploration with plenty of curves and a layout that encourages visitors to get lost. Largely fine arts, though a bit of craft is represented, the building's main attraction comes from Montreal-born David Altmejd whose boxcar sized sculpture featured in its own room, the study of movement in plexiglass one of only a handful found in North America as many are currently featured at a special exhibit in Belgium.

I may not have got the full experience since I visited on Canada Day when the museum was offering free (!) admission, and it was packed! That being said all the staff/volunteers were very helpful & friendly, even when dealing with lots of crowds. Lineups to get into exhibits were well-organized. The building itself is very unique and exhibits were interesting. My favourite of the current exhibits was the William Kentridge exhibit - the video/projections were very unique, have never seen anything like it. Go check it out if you can!

I generally love art galleries. This one was an exception. Very small exhibits. The indigenous art was fair but most of the exhibits were boring and dull. We were not there long. Very small but nice gift shop. The outside of the building is interesting. I would certainly not go out of my way to visit. Even the true art lover would find little here to love.

I don't often get to go to a museum and see actual works of art. Not only is the building itself very interesting, I think it has some great exhibits that everyone can enjoy. 3D, audio/visual, sensory stimulation that anyone can appreciate. Their gift shop is also pretty cool. Great for some gift ideas. Oh, and of course for those who prefer, there has been an ongoing programme for free admission :) Thank you Servus! Free admission to the AGA on the last Thursday of every month from 6-9 pm.* Made possible with the support of Servus Credit Union. - See more at: http://www.youraga.ca/hours#sthash.GBxhltqd.dpuf Take it in! There was a great exhibit a few months ago with lights and shiny things, stuff to touch and smell, it was awesome. Got nothing to do on a last Thursday this month? Hop by after a bite downtown, see what's new in the world of art and culture!

It's nice to, once in a while, come to a place of solitude like the AGA. I've been here three times this summer and I find it the perfect place to unwind and relax in the sublime constructs of this space enjoying some beautiful art The quality of the exhibits are pretty good. I thoroughly enjoyed the Escher exhibit and managed to join the walking lecture on the Warner Bros. exhibit on their art work. Very interesting indeed. The Piranesi exhibit on prisons was also great. Okay - exhibits come and go. I think what's important is that this gallery has 3 storeys with ample exhibition space coupled with a very comfortable and inviting ambience. At a time, I imagine they could have up to 8 different exhibits. The architect, Randall Stout, has given this place more functionality than his ex-boss's (Frank Gehry) works of similar grace. The outside has a very Gehreisc resemblance to it looking almost like a younger brother of the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. The gift shop is cute! They have books on art, Edmonton, artists etc. along with the coffee mugs, jigsaw puzzles and the likes. Given that they have a sort-of childrens' section on the main floor, I think this place would be a good place for families. The guides and other people who work here are quite knowledgeable and clearly enthusiastic about their job. The only downside, as I see it, is that their exhibits don't change as often as they could. If it were an enormously large gallery, that would be a good thing. But given that the exhibit sizes are relatively small, I wish they'd have at least one new exhibit every 2 months.

Awesome Art Gallery. Spent Couple Of Hours And Thoroughly Enjoyed. Saw Some Beautiful Art Pieces And Had Lunch There With Friends. I Would Love To Visit Again.

I write this review as a gentleman who does not frequent art galleries nor have I been to the AGA in about 8 years or so. I really enjoyed my time at the AGA. Firstly, there is the interesting design of the building which, from a distance, looks like a shark is hugging the top. It's kind of cute. Secondly, I love how much context is incorporated on the descriptions of the artists and art. This allowed me to appreciate the exhibits and learn more about prominent and contemporary Canadian artists. I enjoyed reading about artists like Emily Carr, Lawren Harris, Walter J. Phillips (British Artist who settled in Canada) and Brian Jungen. I had a vague idea about Emily Carr's influence on Canadian art, but came away with a better appreciation of her contribution. Her pieces were among my favourites in the gallery. Brian Jungen three pieces were fun. And Phillips' technique and work with water colours and block printing were amazing. In some cases, they resembled photographs. Finally, I felt the staff are a passionate and friendly bunch. Almost annoyingly so, but I mean this as a complement. Clearly, they know their stuff and are not afraid to go into detail about it. I suppose one wants that from the staff of an art museum. The experience was worth the $13+ entrance fee. Will be back very soon!

Some great exhibits which everyone can enjoy. I feel like the exhibits or changing so much there is always something for everyone. A great way to spend a rainy afternoon or go there when it's sunny and enjoyed their rooftop patio. Parking is hard to get so I usually just park underground the Canada place. I also love their gift shop I find that they have the most unique gift there-- that's one of my favourite parts;)

Really a great exhibition space and on par if not better than most public art galleries in North America. It's not the Met or the Guggenheim, but it's as good as the VAG and the Musee des beaux arts. The really well done Karsh, Goya and Degas exhibits have moved on, but now we've got M.C. Escher and the "Art of Warner Bros.": Bugs and Daffy. You bet I'm going.

I went for the first time, paid the 1 day entry, saw a few exhibits and got an AGA membership so that I could come back whenever I want. They offered to put my 1 day entry fee toward my membership which is fair, appreciated and with mentioning. Its a great space, located right downtown, and they work in conjunction with other galleries across Canada. I plan on using the membership when I'm in Vancouver and at the National Gallery in Ottawa. I also will be going back regularly, hopefully to see every exhibit they host over the next year. I tried to go into the restaurant Zinc but they had just closed their kitchen after lunch and before dinner. The cafe upstairs was still open but there was a street festival in Churchill square so we just ate at the food trucks and vendors out there. I really like the patio in AGA. Im looking forward to attending events there while the weather is still nice!

So cool! AGA offers three floors of art in a very modern (architecturally speaking) building in downtown Edmonton. Definitely not as prolific as as, say the Getty or the MOMA, but enough for an hour and a half of entertainment. Glad I got the opportunity to check out the Art Gallery of Alberta on a Wednesday night, which is when they open late (also Lego night for kids, apparently). Overall, I am glad I got to check out the art gallery for free, but not sure if I would be willing to whatever the price is for admission due to the limited exhibitions, both in quantity and selection of exhibitions. My favorite exhibition was "kayâs-ago" (Cree for "a long time ago") by Amy Malbeuf, which is an homage to the indigenous Cree people of Edmonton. The art itself was presented in a dimly-lit room, with various sizes of circular panels on the wall at different heights. The panels were back-lit, reminiscent of circular LED night lights, and the circular edges were defined in space by white caribou hair (yes, caribou!). Within the circular panels were various quotes that were meaningful to the artist; quotes ranged from familiar to unfamiliar, deep to profane, straightforward to bemusing. The typography was a simple sans serif, but impressive because it seemed like a standardized font but was made with tufts of white caribou hair, an ironic homage (in my opinion, at least) to the the native inhabitants, animals included. I also enjoyed the gift star in the main lobby on the first floor, though I did not make any purchases. Gifts ranged from brain games that seemed to have been developed by someone the education field, to locally crafted items such as jewelry and scarves, to novelty items related to the arts exhibits. Items were certainly pricey, but was harmless to peruse.

Just recently Edmonton was unable to attract and host prominent touring exhibitions because its art gallery was leaking, too small, and contained inadequate climate controls. All that has changed with the beautiful and eye-catching new Art Gallery of Alberta. Situated on Churchill Square, the building captures elements of the Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and the Los Angeles Opera House, joining the Winspear Centre and City Hall in making the Square the architectural centerpiece of Edmonton. A result of community fundraising, the Gallery maintains its commitment to the community by maintaining free admission from 6-9 on the last Thursday of each month. From the outside, the ribbon of metal intersects dark, symmetrical windows, symbolizing the North Saskatchewan River making its way through the city's grid-like layout. Inside, those same ribbons are lightly bathed in blue, evoking the wonders of Aurora Borealis in our glorious north. Wood paneling adds coziness to the open spaces while the rooms - sleek, modern, softly lit - lend themselves to quiet contemplation and easy maneuvering between installations. Little seen is a pleasant lecture hall in the basement. Finally, Zinc, ranked as one of Edmonton's best new restaurants of 2010, offers lunch and dinner in an artistic and urban environment. Come downtown and experience what is truly the new jewel of Edmonton.

I love the AGA simply because it offers so much. There are the exhibits, yes, but I've also enjoyed an afternoon on their rooftop terrace or taken adult art classes in their basement annex. I repeatedly take guests here for an afternoon that isn't too "museumy" and when I want to impress them with a cool example of Edmonton architecture. I like the Gift Shop as well, as you can find more than just souvenirs from the travelling exhibits. The book selection is awesome, if you have a hard-to-buy-for friend, check out the Gift Shop for an idea, or buy them a gift certificate! I tend to enjoy the interactive exhibits upstairs as I can get a little bored moving from piece to piece whilst reading wall plaques. I've spent time here with dates, my sister, my Mom and solo. Again, the terrace up top is where your hipster friends had their wedding photos taken and where you'll find awesome views of DT Edmonton. The art classes are cheap and for beginners like me who just want to try something new. I've met some cool people through these art classes, and the instructors are fun and friendly. If you haven't checked out the AGA you should make it your business to do so. Especially now while you can enjoy their terrace!

This is the worst gallery I have ever been to in my life. One possibly interesting exhibit that wasn't open yet and three floors of utter crap. I am very open minded and I could not wrap my head around 90% of what was here. I will not come back here. This is the biggest waste of taxpayer dollars in Alberta that I have ever seen. The architecture of the building was very cool though. Everything was a throw back to the 1960s and 70s of weird sounds, choppy video and scraps of paper and metal.

When many people look at the AGA, they think, "Whoa, what a strange looking building. What's it doing there? It's so outta place!" When I look at the AGA, I think, "Man, Edmonton's got it goin' on!" I do agree that it's out of place. You go one block east and you're in pawn shop central. Then again, Edmonton's out of place. It's ridiculous that almost a million people live this far north, struggling through the winters we do. I've been to my fair share of world-class museums and galleries. The Hermitage in St. Petersburg, the British Museum of London, the Metropolitan in New York and quite a few smaller but just as renowned wonders. I don't pretend to know much about art itself. I simply like the emotions art evokes. The spaces themselves say a lot about the residents and place. That being the case, I'd have to say that Edmontonians have some pretty interesting ideas on what makes a good city, if the AGA is an indication of the direction the city is moving to. Whoever the art director is at the AGA is wonderful. I've visited about five times now and each time, AT LEAST one of the exhibits takes my breath away. Easily one of my favourite places in the city.

I can't say enough good things about the Art Gallery of Alberta. I took the tour on the architecture of the building, and all I could say was, "Wow!" Learned a ton about the unique design and the sustainable elements of the new building. The exhibits change fairly regularly here, and the different galleries feature a refreshing range of art. From the 1800s to Looney Tunes, I think everyone could find something they enjoy. I especially enjoyed watching Looney Tunes for a few minutes on the newly-installed TVs to give my legs a break. Cannot wait to go back and see the newest art.

Love the AGA. I spent a couple hours there during my first visit and promptly bought a membership! The AGA also has a great outreach program for those of us who want to exercise our creative muscles from time to time.

The newly renovated Art Gallery of Alberta is something Edmontonians should be proud of: it's a very interesting piece of architecture at the heart of downtown and its exhibits are a mix of quirk and high class. It's a great place to take in some high quality art or to spend a date day. My husband and I have gone a couple times already, to take in the Looney Tunes and Escher exhibit, which we really enjoyed. The staff at the AGA seem to be very committed in getting high quality exhibits to pass through. On a random walk down Jasper, I was discussing the AGA with my sister and a passerby overheard our conversation and made a note to say that the AGA can hold its own against the likes of the Art Gallery of Ontario. Just because it's in Edmonton, doesn't mean we can't appreciate a genuine work of Degas, and other such work you may expect in larger metropolitan cities. The inside is an interesting 3-storey space, with also an outdoor patio and a ton of glass, wood, and light. So, beyond the exhibits shown, the place is nice enough to observe itself. Also great: the AGA is right above the Churchill LRT station, making it very accessible to anyone wanting to take in some art.

Newly rebuilt with a modern design incorporating different elements, the Art Gallery of Alberta has the space and atmosphere to host world-class art exhibits. And it has been doing so since it reopened in January of 2010. The exhibit spaces are huge, well-lit, and have plenty of places to sit down and contemplate. There is a top quality restaurant on the main floor (Zinc) and a coffee car on the second floor, with an outside patio that has an incredible view of downtown. I bought a membership so I can come here and enjoy the full experience whenever I am downtown and have time. And I always make time for art.

I'm a big fan of installation art. If the AGA has a good exhibit that is interactive or includes installation art, I totally want to experience it. Having been going to the AGA since long before the new building was constructed, I also really enjoy attending special events here. The new building is gorgeous, eye-catching and well worth a visit if you haven't already.

As one of the non food related stops during my visit to Edmonton, I have to say that I was rather impressed with the selection here. I am very much an art amateur and I only can really talk about what I like versus what I don't like. I am not proficient in different art techniques or even its history. The works I were able to see here impressed me and I felt the price was excellent for everything I was able to take in. We visited on a Friday around 11am and we found the gallery mostly empty save for the legion of school children running around. Even with the kids, the place was quite decent for viewing art. The pieces were presented with good spacing and each smaller gallery was tied together with a common theme which was clearly explained up front. We ended up only making it through half of the available works before hunger got the better of us. I felt the temperature was controlled nicely and I didn't get that "I'm going to fall asleep" feeling that I have gotten in other museums. At 12CA I really felt that my visit here was a value and I only wish photography was allowed in the galleries. I did get a small yelling at for trying to snap a photo with my iPhone. I have no flash but it didn't matter, photography is discouraged as I quickly learned. Other than the undue attention I brought on myself, I had a fantastic time here. The architecture of the building alone is worth the price of admission.

I like the new gallery - but don't love it. It somehow seems like the quality of the visitor experience was sacrificed for the wacky exterior. After the grandeur of the entrance, some of the exhibit spaces seem forced and the transitions are often clunky. But my biggest beef is with the price of admission. We usually go at least once a year, but at the current price would not go more often.

Gives the downtown of Edmonton a tasteful, artsy yet stylish feel to the centre core of the city. Which is defiantly what Edmonton needs to revamp their outlook to tourists and local perspectives from the people. Inside, defiantly allows one to escape the city mindset - you think Edmonton and you do not see edmonton insde, well that is given the mindset for me. I like to be transported when i think of art and its surroundings.

I don't get art. I realize that's a pretty broad statement, and that art is a subjective medium but art galleries aren't really my thing. I look at a painting and usually the things that come to my mind are adjectives like; neat, weird and thoughts such as, "I like that colour of blue paint." I'm never able to comprehend what an artist is trying to say about himself/herself or society in general. Despite this I've been to the new Art Gallery of Alberta three times. Once with a friend after it first opened. Then to check out the Escher and Looney Tunes exhibit, and finally again with another friend to see the Andy Warhol exhibit. I love that Edmonton has such a beautiful and unique space to display art from all over the world. I think the AGA has done a great job of bringing in art exhibits that will attract a wide range of people, from art aficionados, to people like me who don't really get art. There's an art area for kids, more traditional art, and even interactive art. One of my favourite exhibits on my last visit was the interactive silver cloud exhibit. I don't know what it was supposed to mean, but it was fun. Adult admission is $12.50 but if you're a student or senior you'll only pay $8.50. Alternatively you can check out the AGA on the last Thursday of each month from 6pm to 8pm when admission is free. However; the free night gets busy, so if you like to take your time looking through a gallery and/or you want to avoid crowds then this won't be your best choice. You can drive to the AGA and park at a nearby parkade, like the one at the library. But I recommend taking the LRT because the AGA is right next to Churchill Station. Take the escalator from the platform of the lrt station and at the top you'll see the entrance that goes to the AGA. The AGA has a restaurant, Zinc, which I haven't been to. There's a rooftop space with different sculptures. It's not a huge, but day it give a nice view of Churchill Square and city hall. Plus the standard gift store featuring a variety of souvenirs, including postcards of the when the AGA was being built (which I thought was kinda neat). They also have souvenirs relating to the exhibits that are occurring at the time, books, and products from local artists, like Sushi Papercraft journals (disclaimer: I know the artist behind Sushi Papercraft but I still really love the journals). The next time I come to the AGA I'm going to book a tour to learn more about what I'm seeing. Maybe I'll finally understand art, and maybe it'll always be something I don't really get. Either way I'll come back to the AGA and have a nice time trying to figure it out.

Love the exterior of this building. Love the way it's integrated into the interior staircase experience; overall an awesome venue, and I wish I could attend (or host) an event in the space, as it's likely the envy of downtown Edmonton. Additionally, the rooftop patio space is excellent and although the view isn't all that special, it's a nice way to extend the space. The artwork itself didn't blow me away, and I think that there is likely an effort to build a more exciting collection. Now, I'm no expert, so it's not really fair to judge, either. I'm happy we stopped in, and I would visit again if there was an event or special exhibit of interest.

Wonderful to see an oasis of culture blossoming in Edmonton. Wouldn't it be great if Edmonton bull dozed some of the boring buildings around the Mall and replaced them with more architectural interesting and iconic buildings like the AGA. Some great at work inside at the 90x90 show. Viewing a great collection of Alberta art was inspiring. I'll be back.

Love our Art Gallery!!! Every time I drive or walk by it it makes me smile. I love all of the fabulous event that are always being held there. I love classes the that the gallery puts on. And I love that Alberta had the for thought to produce such a stunning building that globally represents to the world that Albertans care about art, that we are serious about bringing top bill exhibits here, for the people of our Province. It makes me happy to know that children in Alberta now have a state of the art facility that their school can bring them too (remember that depressing old building. Worst field trips ever!) So kudos to every one that was involved in one way or another that made it possible to bring real art to Alberta. Now go out and get a membership, or see the current exhibits. Have lunch at Zinc and tell 'em Jennie sent ya! No no, don't do that last part ;)

I have never been to an Art Gallery before but this was impressive. The building has been renovated and now looks and feels how I imagine an art gallery should feel. It's another cool thing to check out if you haven't before. If you are downtown you should definitely stop by.

Went here today with my brother so glad we got in free because what a waste of time. I understand that are is subjective but when human hair is glued to a stick that's not art, it's frankly trash. The second floor was also blocked off for remodelling the website should have stated that because we spent a total of 30min all together in the gallery's. I found it stupid the the only art I really saw was the building itself and the art I drew in the hands on kids exhibit. What a waste to have that space filled with useless art. To be honest I used to believe that everyone is artist but after what I saw today my view has definitely changed. Everyone can put things together doesn't mean it's art.

Lots to look at and welcoming to small Children

Rotating galleries offer something interesting and new on the regular. On their cheap day, a student ID will get you in for free.

Interesting building- go in and check out the lobby but skip paying to see the art- so not worth it... including the broken Calder knock off mobile sculpture in the lobby... really?

My boyfriend told me there was a Rembrandt and van Gogh exhibit at the AGA, so I said let's go check out. This museum is just. . .okay. I am more into traditional art and dislike modern yet. There seemed to be an equal balance of the two at AGA. It was a nice visit, but I highly doubt I'll be going there again. There just wasn't enough to see.

I am not a regular but when they host events I do like to attend. I recently attended one of the Vibe events. Unfortunately the patio rooftop party turned indoor because of the rain. It was not bad, with a live band and food menu with drinks. I believe the cost of attending should have at least covered the drinks. We were able to walk around the gallery for free, attending the art displays at that time. We did have access to the rooftop which was nice as there were times where there was not a downpour :). Some good city views although somewhat surround by tall buildings. Open to public and have both drop in and yearly pass / membership - easy to obtain as the info is all online. Building architecture is beautiful and recognizable featuring and promoting local talent as much as possible. Also bring in featured international artists. They have a childrens' program and art sessions for adults in the evening which is great if you feel like bringing out your inner Michaelangeo (located below main floor). Check the free classes online for both children and adult. Worth it. They have different areas that can host events and i have attended a workshop in that area. The Gift Shop is also located in front and across information, easy access as there are washrooms on main floor and elevators behind the information desk. FREE ADMISSION every Thurs of each month 6-9. Compliments of Servus Credit Union Attached is Zinc, fine dining restaurant noted to cater events held by the Gallery. There is a cafe upstairs as well. Parking paid is all around, free after 6pm. Close to LRT station right outside.

The AGA taught me a valuable lesson. Never go on first dates to art galleries. Neither of us were sure if we were quietly admiring the art or just having a drawn out, awkward silence. Trying to flirt in an echoey gallery with 10 other silent strangers listening to your every word is also not recommended. Needless to say, we hurried through the collections. My next visit was not as jarring an experience and I had a great time.

I've been here on 4 different occasions and they always seem to bring in new art. Definitely nothing like you might see in most major cities but genuinely good.

It's a small gallery and expensive for what you get to see so phone ahead to make sure all 3 floors are open and there are no closures otherwise you will be disappointed. It has a third floor outdoor patio which is nice. Having been to Italy, France and Ottawa maybe I'm just spoiled, but definitely worth a visit every couple of years. It's free on Canada Day! The exterior is avant-garde and looks like a can opener peeled the top off.

Totally awesome! Now we need something like this in Calgary, too. Beautiful renovation... world-class artwork contained within... love love love!

Beautiful building and interesting exhibits. We had lunch at Zinc in AGA. It was pretty good, with a nice view. I would suggest it to anyone visiting or with a free afternoon.

Love how they are trying to make art, and the lessons it gives us, more accessible to a wider audience.

I would give AGA 5 stars for the exhibitions, the price range for students ($8 minus 3 for having a bus pass), and the interesting shape of the building. However, from my first time visit today, I cannot help but give a three star rating, mainly because of the terrible experience I had with the AGA staff. My friend and I had decided to come in right at 11 when it first opened to avoid the crowds. As a result we became the only ones visiting the art gallery so early in the morning. This may sound like a good thing, but when we got into the first exihibition, we found security guards - two middle-aged women, breathing down our necks the entire time. Whenever we seemed to be leaning too close to a piece, they would start yelling at us to lean back. When we pointed to a description on the wall, they would yell at us saying we weren't allowed to touch the descriptions beside the art pieces, nor the glass box we pointed a finger at as if we will dirty the glass. Perhaps they thought since we were students coming in here so early in the morning so we were bound to be trouble, therefore we did not deserve to be respected or trusted like proper adults. To us it felt like the guards were abusing their powers as there were no other visitors at that time so they had nothing better to do than yell at two students and follow behind us on our heels. It was like being in a zoo, we were afraid to even walk and breathe in the gallery, it didn't feel very welcoming to us at all. We tried being polite by making conversation with them, yet they just ignored our attempts and continued to glare at us. I don't mean to complain about all the security guards, the male ones on the upper level galleries were very good and only watched us from a distance, and even helped us find the way. But we just found the females ones we met today to be very rude, and this alone ruined what would have been a wonderful first time experience for me and my artistic friend. Overall it was a fairly good experience, not counting the incidences with the guards, but the atmosphere was also a little too quiet to my liking. It would be better to have some soft instrumental music over on the speakers so it wouldn't be so awkward with the security guards glaring at us. I wouldn't recommend you to go early in the morning if you are a young student. Maybe go with an older adult so you get the full respect you deserve. Also, the hands on interactive room is a great experiences to younger children.

I'm a multi-year member, so my perspective is based on frequent visits. The AGA is a gem in Edmonton's arts firmament, with beautifully staged and often wonderful exhibits, but compared to other cities, the curation and collection is still limited. There are no permanent galleries, so it's not the place where one can be guaranteed to see a Kent Monkman, a Doris McCathy, an Edward Burtynsky, a Brian Jungen, an Emily Carr, a Teresa Vander Meer-Chasse, or any of the other major Canadian artists. So, a visit can be hit or miss. Nevertheless, the galleries are being curated inventively. There is always something for children - hands-on, stimulating, colourful, fun; there is always something rather classic, but with a twist - landscapes in Settler or Indigenous perspectives, perhaps; there is usually something experimental, and usually a visiting exhibit, such as the recent (and fantastic) Border-X exhibit of indigenous artists' surf, snow and skate boards. There is a strong commitment to community out-reach, with evening date-night events, weekend and after work arts lessons, affordable art rentals, curator talks, and now, free admission days. The AGA does have areas to improve: the 'cafe' on the second floor is a wasted opportunity. What could be a vibrant place to have a quick downtown lunch with art, or a coffee (or wine?!) while talking about the exhibits and viewing the sky itself as art, is a cold, lonely, dismal space with uncomfortable seating and generally mediocre or stale offerings. Bike parking is inadequate. The exhibit curation is sometimes underwhelming, and new artists' work is often not well situated in the wider Canadian and international context. That being said, a membership is worth the fairly minimal cost, and return visits are highly recommended.

First off i'm writing this as a casual art admirer so you can take my opinion for what it's worth. I had a couple of hours to kill before work and was downtown so I decided to make my first ever trip to the art gallery. There was a beautiful exhibit of Dutch landscapes going on as well as an exhibit by Canadian painters. A Lot of the names I was not familiar with and much to my disappointment none of the staff seemed willing to approach me with a greeting or offer any extra tid bits of art information. In every gallery I walked into there was always 2-3 staff members inside usually chatting amongst themselves. I know the AGA offers three dollars off admission if you show a valid ets fare product for that day and one would assume that is to generate more interest in the building amongst the general public. I just got the feeling the whole time I was there though that it was more like a special club for art enthusiasts and I had somehow managed to sneak my way in. Also there doesn't seem to be alot on display there in terms of volume. I got through the whole art gallery while reading every piece of information displayed by the artwork in about an hour and fifteen minutes and after paying $13.00 to get in left feeling slightly ripped off. All in all I have to say if your like myself and just casually interested or if your not at all into modern art it would just be best to avoid this and put your dollars towards the Zoo or Fort Edmonton Park where there is a little bit more to see.

Meh, its tough to give this place a mediocre review, I try to promote culture here in Edmonton, cause theres no joking here our culture compared to Calgary is lacking, but 3 stars is just the highest I can go. Visually the building looks stunning from the outside, no doubt that this awkward building is an Art Gallery. You go inside and well I hate the setup. The individual rooms (galleries) with that specific works makes no sense to me. i would like a setup where i walk in the museum and theres some sort of direction to go. It was the chaos theory in there. A little bit here and some more mixed in there and so on. By having these individual galleries I feel that 1/3 of the overall museum space is wasted by hallways, separate entrances, everything else but art. I went with a group and they felt the same way, so it wasn't just me. The art itself was meh, some pieces were great but others? just because its old does not mean its ART, put it in the museum instead. Overall a dissatisfying experience, I don't want to go back.