Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Photoconceptual
Collection
The gallery is known for
its permanent collection
of contemporary photo-
based art that spans two
decades and includes
works by the Vancouver
School of artists, such
as Jeff Wall, Stan Doug-
las, Ian Wallace, and
Ken Lum, as well as
international artists
Nancy Spero and Cindy
Sherman, among others.
Southern Façade
Overlooking Robson
Street, the original steps
into the court house are
now a popular meeting
spot for locals. On the
portico
(above)
is a cryptic
message carved in yellow
cedar letters by conceptu-
al artist Lawrence Weiner.
Exhibitions
Program
Foremost artists, ranging
from historic masters to
leading-edge contempo-
rary artists, are regularly
presented in major the-
matic exhibitions, solo
shows, and intimate,
focused showcases.
Beck/Gruft
Collection
This major collection of
historical photographs
includes significant
images by acclaimed pho-
tographers such as Andre
Kertesz, Maxime Du
Camp, and Walker Evans.
Architecture
Architectural icon
Arthur Erickson added
41,400 sq ft (3,715 sq m)
of exhibit space to the old
court house when trans-
forming it into the gallery's
permanent home. Erick-
son retained many of the
original features, includ-
ing the courtroom, with
its carved judge's bench.
Emily Carr
Emily Carr was born into
a wealthy Victoria family
in 1871. The eccentric
artist, however, chose a
bohemian lifestyle, and
her powerful artworks
were painted on a pau-
per's budget, often in
the old-growth forests
of Haida Gwaii (Queen
Charlotte Islands). It
wasn't until 1937, when
Carr was 65 years old,
that the Vancouver Art
Gallery bought one of
her works. Largely over-
looked during her life-
time, Carr's works now
command some of the
highest prices in Canada.
First Nations Art
Paintings, carvings, and sculpture by Pacific
Northwest Native artists are part of the gallery's rotat-
ing permanent collection, which includes sculptures
by late Haida master carver Bill Reid
(see p36).
Reflect-
ing the modernist style of many Native artists,
Eagles
(below),
by Haida artist Robert Davidson, combines
principles of abstraction with traditional iconography.
Super
Sundays
On the third Sunday
of each month, fam-
ilies with school-
aged children come
to learn about art
together. Draw,
paint, create art
projects, and watch
or engage in dance
performances.
Exhibitions are enhanced with lectures by gallery curators, artists,
and art historians; call 604 662 4717 for details
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