The Polygon Gallery

The Polygon Gallery is one of Vancouver’s absolute gems. I live in the West End and always think it’s far, but the SeaBus runs every 15 minutes and drops you practically at the front door—so easy! The Polygon consistently hosts some of the best, most thoughtfully curated events in the city, and I honestly think a lot of that comes down to their incredible Head of Marketing, Michael Mann. Every party, exhibit, or special event I’ve attended has introduced me to the coolest, most interesting people—and the crowd is always diverse, stylish, and welcoming. The exhibitions themselves? Always inspiring, important, and beautifully presented. I also love their more relaxed events like the summer movie series, especially how they tie into the gallery’s current themes. The Polygon never disappoints. I’ll be a proud member for many years to come!

Haven't been here for a Decade!!! And oh boy, what a difference!!! City of North Vancouver really did a good job in revitalize the area. Opening NOW . Will definitely be back.

A Must-Visit Cultural Gem on Vancouver’s Waterfront! The Polygon Gallery is an absolute treasure nestled in the heart of North Vancouver’s Shipyards District. This stunning modern space offers a captivating blend of contemporary art, rich history, and breathtaking architecture. Inspiring Exhibitions Specializing in photography and media art, The Polygon showcases a dynamic range of exhibitions that are both thought-provoking and visually striking. The gallery's commitment to adventurous programming ensures there's always something new and exciting to experience. Architectural Excellence Designed by the award-winning Patkau Architects, the building itself is a masterpiece. Its sleek, modern design features a distinctive sawtooth roofline and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that flood the interior with natural light and offer stunning views of the Burrard Inlet. Delightful Café Experience After exploring the exhibits, visitors can unwind at the gallery's café, which boasts a menu of locally-sourced delights. From charcuterie boxes to avocado toast made with Nemesis milk bread, there's something to satisfy every palate. The outdoor patio offers an unbeatable view of the city skyline, making it the perfect spot to relax. Curated Gallery Shop The on-site shop features a carefully selected range of design-led products, including homewares, jewelry, and art books. Many items are crafted by local artisans, making it an ideal place to find unique gifts and support the local creative community. Accessible and Welcoming Admission to The Polygon Gallery is always by donation, ensuring that art remains accessible to everyone. Its prime location, just a short walk from the Lonsdale Quay SeaBus terminal, makes it easily reachable from downtown Vancouver. Final Thoughts Whether you're an art aficionado or a casual visitor, The Polygon Gallery offers an enriching experience that shouldn't be missed. Its combination of compelling exhibitions, architectural beauty, and community-focused amenities make it a standout destination on Vancouver's North Shore.

Good place to visit and enjoy the arts and gallery. You will find also a shop in the entrance with many things to buy. It is located on Vancouver Shipyard square, where you can also enjoy a beautiful view and take special pictures.

Beautiful gallery, nice place to roam around and spend some time on enjoying some artwork

This gallery is really small but I really enjoyed that. Entrance fee is by donation. There were 2-3 main photography exhibits and I loved them! The space is well-curated and we had a good time. Love the gift shop too :)

The waterfront location, and the bright, high-ceiling space is perfect. The beautifully-curated exhibitions are always on point. However, 2-stars are for your volunteers’ disregard to your current Indigenous feature exhibition: “MANUEL AXEL STRAIN: XʷƏLMƏXʷ CHILD.” It is appropriate to have this as your feature exhibit in Indigenous lands but your volunteers, when asked how to properly pronounce the Indigenous words, I was told “Ma’am that’s not our thing,” in a dismissive voice. This is one out of two of your exhibits and yet your volunteers cant be bothered to be respectful to your artists and features. I find it rather confusing as to how your volunteers are not at all seemingly interested about the works of your artists, much more how to respectfully inform/educate your visitors. I hope your gallery can do better in training your volunteers as it rather left a distaste and bad experience visiting Polygon.

This gallery is beautiful located by the water. There is a large gift shop on the lower level. Exhibits were located on both floors. If you are walking around town it’s a great spot to drop in and view some art. Entry fee is by donation.

On now at the Polygon Gallery, until July 14, 2024, dani gal: historical records and until June 2, 2024, velvet terrorism: p#ssy riot's russia. *note: sensory-overloading exhibition. noise cancelling headphones available at bookstore.

My friend and I visited this gallery late last night and we both were blown away by the gift shop inside! (We unfortunately did not check out the actual gallery or exhibition as we were there just 30 minutes before its closing at 9pm). The gallery gift shop is fantastic. I admit, we are suckers for museum gift shops, and this was just like a smaller version. They had gorgeous artisan jewelry, artsy household decor accessories, clever and unique games, candles and potions, greeting cards, etc., all the types of high-end and clever and artsy items you'd find at most art museum stores. Prices are high, yes, but most items are unique, that you'd not find elsewhere, and are of high quality, and support artists and the art gallery. Also, they do have a section of sale items here, too. I really appreciated how family-friendly the staff is here, and how they have programs and items designed to get kids interested in art. Case in point: at the counter they advertised free kits for kids, to make these AWESOME, cool articulated puppets. These puppets are super neat, made from thick, colored cardboard, with funky graphics on each section, with each section attached to each other by metal rivets or brads, so the joints are all articulated and move. Super fun. And FREE! My friend asked for one for her toddler niece and the lady at the center asked if she wanted more than one kit. So my friend got three kits, for her niece and her little friends. I asked for two kits, for my two kids (who are older, but would enjoy them) and the lady said, sure, no problem! So I got a few of these fun puppet kits, too. I thought that was amazingly nice. I should note, too, that this building is gorgeous, with clean lines and infused with light as the walls are all glass. And they have these comfy, cozy, round cobalt blue sofas by the window wall facing the water. Perfect for reading or just getting some sun rays and taking in the view. Lovely lovely building.

Had the chance to visit the gallery this past Saturday, after having visited the North Vancouver museum just before. Based on the current content, I would not recommend visiting the gallery. It's clear this is a newer facility, and it shows, however showcasing a rap battle/co-operative rap and a number of photos from protests around the world without discussion or analysis leaves me to wonder what the point was. Are they saying that the Stanley Cup riots were pointless, in comparison to public outrage/protests in other countries? The above content is found in the upstairs gallery, while downstairs there are a number of photos, also a bit disjointed and lacking cohesion. Save your money and instead visit the museum of anthropology at UBC or the museum of North Vancouver just up the road.

This irregularly shaped gallery space is conveniently located at the heart of North Vancouver, minutes away from Lonsdale Quay, and a short walk to/from the Shipyards. Like its contemporary exterior, this building is also home to the Polygon Gallery, a space dedicated to mixed media & photography exhibitions. The gallery is currently accessible by donation, which makes it the perfect time to visit! To my surprise, the interior exhibition space is much smaller than anticipated, estimating it will only take a mere 30mins to explore. I am always intrigued by gallery shop offerings at every exhibition I visit, the Polygon's shop was no exception, highly recommend a wander. I would've enjoyed the shopping experience much more if the products were less 'cluster-y' given the ample space available on the gallery's first floor.

A great little gallery! Clean, bright, a good rotation of exhibits, nice store and friendly staff. Admission by donation.

Gobsmacking space, not a lot being exhibited at this time, but worth the price of admission. *paywhatyoucan The gift gallery is well curated with inspired pieces, many are crafted by local artists and all sales support the gallery and their educational programs. The photograhy bookstore is small and perfecly stocked. Like a time machine, it transported me back to when I had my own library of photo books, always drawing me into an inspired, dreamlike state. A world where I both belonged and yet felt unworthy at the same time. The energy, the light, the whole space of this gallery inspires the imagination and leads us forth to achieve our own potential.

Opinions differ as to the aesthetics of this new "sawtooth" shaped building, but it is a seriously gorgeous gallery space inside. That controversial roof is designed to let in plenty of light, and the windows on the harbour side let in the ever-changing views of the Vancouver skyline. The Polygon is a well-deserved upgrade for the former Presentation House Gallery, which was located for over 30 years up the road at the Presentation House arts centre. They built serious cred for their photography exhibits in that tiny two-rooms-and-an-alcove space, and now have the room to really grow here in a modern art gallery. Now, it's two floors, with a gift shop, bookstore, stairwell, two large gallery rooms, and two smaller spaces with views out to the Inlet, plus a balcony. I got to go to the opening night, and can also confirm the gallery is an epic space for art and party to come together in their natural habitat. The opening exhibit is dedicated to my beloved hometown, N. Vancouver, and features historic/archive photos, video, sculpture, collage and art photography. The Stan Douglas print of Cates Park was a real standout for me, and other big names include Rodney Graham, Fred Herzog and Jeff Wall. North Van is the Best Van, and you all should know it.

This is mostly high end art stuff with some accessible things as gifts. Everything is local so this is a plus. I came into the gift shop more for the view. The gallery itself, for something cheap to do was fun for contemporary photography. It is free but donation is suggested.

While I'm all for supporting the arts, By Donation means exactly that. When they don't let you into the space until you go to the admissions desk... then strongly "advise" you of a "recommended donation amount", and not allow you to enter until you receive a sticker showing you have "donated", let's be realistic and call this an admission fee - not a donation. And for the Kids First Saturdays, which is meant to encourage young kids to grow up loving the arts, forcing a DONATION is just wrong on all counts-- people could have made a bigger donation last month, and not in a position to donate this month, but still would like to foster an arts culture in kids. Or have parents who are members but the grandparents are taking the kids. Also, while I know this pretentious non profit is struggling financially, forcing DONATIONS is the most ridiculous and short-sighted way to make a profit, losing long-term and future patrons. Polygon should get off their elitist high horse and make profits through event rentals as there is a demand for this, as well as joining forces with other nvrc programs if they expect nvrc funding. Otherwise, they don't deserve the concessions they have already received. And it is certainly not benefiting locals. I cannot believe my taxpayer dollars have been spent to support this gallery!! Let's not put another penny in this arrogant gallery and support arts to benefit local residents instead.

Wow, what a ripoff. I realize that art is subjective but this was not even an attempt. We were told by some car saleswoman about the artist (Susan Hiller) and how good her work was and maybe it is, but polygon's attempt of a exhibition was horrible. Two rooms with looping video on big screens that was not even Hiller's work. And one room with some books and a few prints. I feel duped. My hard earned money is poly-gone and I will NEVER be back.