Esker Foundation

The Esker Foundation is such a gem in Calgary. This free contemporary art gallery is always a joy to visit. The staff are consistently warm, welcoming, and kind, creating an inviting space to explore. The exhibits change frequently and are always thought-provoking, creative, and beautifully curated. I’m always excited to see what they bring in next. A must-visit for anyone who loves art or just wants a meaningful experience.

The solo exhibition of Czech-Canadian installation artist Jana Sterbak is currently on at the Esker Foundation, with free admission. I went to check it out on Saturday. There were definitely parts I still couldn’t fully get, but when I saw the Sisyphus installation, it really hit me — a person inside a roly-poly–like cage constantly trying to find balance; such a perfect metaphor. And that stone backpack… even though I haven’t been working for a while now, I couldn’t help but feel struck by it, too.

So much to see in this beautiful space and that too FOR FREE. Sweet lady at reception. Thoughtful work by Babak Golkar and Caroline Monnet. Descriptions made me understand the beautiful artpieces. Their themes and meanings ⭐️ The wall dedicated to young artists made it more special.

Amazing FREE museum with FREE parking underground in the back. Lots of modern art pieces and many pieces located throughout the building as well. Well worth a visit.

Esker Foundation is such a gem in the city! Easy to find and perk of underground parking nearby. The exhibitions are always thoughtfully curated and deeply meaningful — you can tell a lot of care goes into the selections. Their kids’ workshops are top notch, engaging, and wonderfully run. A must-visit for both art lovers and families!

Free gallery with lots to see! The exhibits are thoughtful and you can spend so much time reading through. There’s free 90 minute parking too if you validate. Such a sweet spot.

Simply the best! Thoughtful, interesting range of exhibitions and programs. Wonderfully kind and knowledgeable staff. A must visit (again and again) for out-of-towners and southern Alberta residents alike!

This place is unbelievable!! My daughter and I came here after seeing an advertisement on the street, and I am so glad that we did. There were free exhibits that allowed us to have quality bonding time! While forming these lifelong memories, we were also able to inspire my daughter's natural love for art, as she is an artist herself. I love this place, and we are hoping to check out the Fall exhibit once it releases! Thank you to everyone who contributes to the display of these masterpieces.

I've only been to the Esker Foundation Contemporary Art Gallery twice but it's one of my favourite art galleries/exhibition spaces in the city! It's a beautiful place that easily accommodates both large & small scale artwork. It also regularly features pieces of various mediums including sculpture, painting, photography, interactive exhibits, film & any combination of the above. I've yet to see a live performance piece there, though they do seem to have the capacity for it. The Esker also features talks by artists, family art events & kid focused hands on art lessons! You'll have to register via their site but they are entirely free! It's also FREE for regular visits! As an extra bonus, they have nice longer hours, especially on Thursdays & Fridays, when they're open till 8pm. The place is clean & modern. There's some beautiful architectural elements to the interior without imposing on the features works. There's also a nice sitting area with a fantastic view of downtown if you just want a nice break. The only negative about the space is that the main revolving door is a little too seamless! Meaning: the actual openings to come in and out look way too similar to the glass panels! If you're not touching the glass walls or you're not paying attention (eg: you're talking to a friend or your phone just rang, etc) you can actually miss the opening & have to do the turn again! It's embarrassing, believe me! :( Other than the main door this is one amazing space! I love this place very much, please check it out sometime, or catch one of their talks. Those can get a bit crowded even with registration, so go early! Have fun & fill up on some amazing works of art!