creative calgary: Esker Foundation

Last week, Erin and I had the opportunity to meet with the folks at the Esker Foundation. I had heard good things about this new gallery in Calgary's Inglewood community, but hadn't yet had the chance to visit. We were in awe of the fantastic architecture as soon as we entered the building's atrium and not prepared at how spacious and dramatic the fourth-floor Esker Foundation Gallery truly is.

From their website: "The Esker Foundation is the creation of local philanthropists and art patrons Jim and Susan Hill, and is the largest, privately funded, non-commercial gallery of its kind in Calgary. Esker is positioned as a cultural platform for innovative and exceptional temporary art exhibitions and educational events.

As the cornerstone of a new mixed use building in historic Inglewood, the Atlantic Avenue Art Block, the gallery features 15,000 square feet of environmentally controlled purpose built exhibition space designed by Kasian Architects and Interior Designers and operates within a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver accredited standards master plan created by Abugov Kaspar Architects."

Our meeting was within the suspended nest which was perhaps the most architecturally interesting place I've ever attended a meeting. Throughout the space there were great views of Calgary and the Inglewood neighbourhood. We also enjoyed the excellent exhibition of Landon Mackenzie's large scale paintings and smaller drawings.

Make a visit to the Esker top on your list next time you're in Inglewood... they're open every day except Monday and admission is completely free.