Over 12000 works of art. That’s how many pieces are in the Vancouver Art Gallery’s collection. It’s a treasure trove of visual culture representing British Columbia’s rich artistic history. Welcome to Art Works a place that embodies this vibrant legacy.
Art Works isn’t just a gallery. It’s a living testament to the artistic spirit of Vancouver. It showcases the work of local artists and contributes to the international art dialogue. The Gallery’s collection started in 1931. Since then it’s grown significantly. It now includes a wealth of art from various periods and styles.
Think of Emily Carr. Her modernist landscapes are a cornerstone of the Gallery’s collection. They capture the beauty of British Columbia’s mountains and coast. You’ll also find works by other West Coast artists like Lawren Harris. Their paintings laid the foundation for future generations of artists.
But the story doesn’t end with landscapes. The collection includes works from the 1960s and 70s. These pieces often moved away from traditional forms. They embraced performance and installation art. First Nations artists also contributed significantly. They blend traditional iconography with contemporary perspectives. Their work offers a unique and powerful voice.
The Vancouver School of photoconceptualism is another important highlight. This movement brought international recognition to Vancouver’s art scene. Roy Arden Stan Douglas and Jeff Wall are among the notable artists. Their work often explores political and social issues using imagery from the region. The Gallery boasts a significant collection of photo-based works. This collection includes local artists and international masters.
The Gallery is also committed to showcasing contemporary Asian art. Important works by artists like Eikoh Hosoe and Mariko Mori are part of the collection. Recent acquisitions from Chinese artists add to this growing collection. The Gallery also holds a small but important collection of First Nations art. This includes model poles masks and other traditional artifacts. The collection tells the story of the region’s earliest artistic expressions.
Art Works actively collects contemporary work. This work explores Indigenous identity in unique ways. Sonny Assu Rebecca Belmore and other contemporary artists are represented. They show innovative and thought-provoking pieces.
Art Works is more than just a gallery. It’s a vibrant hub of artistic expression. It’s a place where history meets innovation. It showcases the past and embraces the future of art in Vancouver and beyond.