by Athena Raypold
While Churchill Square’s Art Gallery of Alberta is iconic, 124 Street is Edmonton’s gallery district; the culmination of creativity and commerce creates an inviting, low key and accessible experience to both expert and amateur art aficionados. Here are five of Edmonton’s top art galleries to check out! [Image credit: iStock.com/Lusky]
The bright and beautiful Bearclaw Gallery on 124 Street is located just south of Stony Plain Road, and it has been showcasing the diverse work of Canadian First Nations artists since 1975. In addition to paintings and sculptures, Bearclaw’s inventory includes silver, bone, and leather works and First Nations arts and crafts by Cree, Dene, Ojibway, Iroquois, and Metis artists. Bearclaw supports both established and emerging Canadian First Nations artists like Order of Canada recipients Daphne Odjig, Norval Morrisseau, and Alex Janvier, as well as Edmonton favourites Aaron Paquette and Jason Carter.
A gallery curated and managed by Edmonton artist Mariam Qureshi, the Lotus Art Gallery exhibits an extensive collection of artwork by local artists ranging from realistic to abstract pieces. Lotus loves all art forms and allows artists the freedom to create art without limitations. They offer consultation services to assist buyers in finding the perfect piece for their space and host artist reception parties, paint nights with artists, live music events, yoga, literary events, art lessons from preschool to adults, music lessons, and workshops.
A deep and narrow space with open beam ceilings and bamboo flooring, the Bugera Matheson Gallery showcases art that stays with you and continually surprises you, that is revitalizing, upbeat, and bold. Since 1992, the gallery has offered contemporary art collectors personal, but collectible, art, always assisting art lovers with patience and care, seeking to provide a unique experience and to connect people with art that moves them. The Bugera Matheson Gallery offers art leasing, delivery and installation, and gift registries.
Located around the corner from Remedy Café, the Lando Gallery is the city’s largest commercial art gallery. Established in 1990, owner and art dealer, Brent Luebke, is an expert in 19th century through to modern Canadian, Western European, and American fine art. In addition to exhibiting multi-artist shows, Lando Gallery also provides custom framing, art leasing, appraisals, collection management, and interior design to clients. The gallery also hosts art auctions three times a year.
Featuring contemporary Canadian fine art, the Scott Gallery was founded in 1986. Focusing on showcasing the work of Edmonton artists, both emerging and established, but also including international art, the Scott Gallery continually evolves with the changing creative community and the art collecting culture.
These are only a handful of 124 Street’s art galleries, but they offer a glimpse into the diversity of Edmonton’s artistic community.
