Nickle Galleries – Do What the Locals Do – Episode 22

Calgary Activities at the Nickle Galleries – Episode #22

Our last episode of do what the locals do highlighted the University of Calgary’s Taylor Family Digital Library (TFDL). What it briefly mentioned, but didn’t talk in-depth about, was the fact that one of YYC’s best museums – the Nickle Galleries – is located inside this gigantic centre of learning.

Opening its new location inside the TFDL in October of 2012, the Nickle Galleries (formerly known as the Nickle Arts Museum) sophisticated facility has anywhere from two to three exhibits on at once that showcase some of Western Canada’s best contemporary art, as well as fascinating artifacts taken from the museums vast collection of historical photos, letters and other documentation.

And guess what… entrance to the Nickle Galleries is entirely free!

More than 13,000 visitors go to the TFDL every day and have the opportunity to see all exhibits without paying a dime, although if you do visit, you may be enticed to pick up a souvenir or two from the gift shop.

Here are the two current exhibits on show at the galleries as an example of what to expect. Each exhibition is on show anywhere from a month to over three.

Location

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“Abstraction in Canada: the 1950’s, and 60’s”

With over 6000 pieces of art in its permanent collection, the Nickle Galleries has drawn from its vast reserves of abstract art from the 50s and 60s to create this intriguing exhibit.

Accompanying the works of art you’ll is a history of abstract painting in Canada.

“Ron Thom and the Allied Arts”

Many would agree that architecture is in essence a form of artwork at its finest and most practical level. This particular exhibit explores that notion, showcasing the evolution of the works of famous Western Canadian architect Ronald Thom – now deceased.

Two of his most prized designs include Trent University`s riverside campus and Massey College. He received over a dozen honours and awards throughout his career.

Nickle Galleries may have changed its current exhibits by the time you discover this article online. For information on what is currently being shown, check out the University of Calgary's website or Google it online!

Get a Tour!

Nickle Galleries has daily tours of its exhibits where you`ll be able to pick the brains of the tour guide if you`d like. They usually are on in the afternoons around 4:00pm.

Other things to do at the U of C:

• Go swimming or ice skating at the Olympic Oval

• Work out at the fitness facility

• Explore the TFDL and use its technology free

• Eat / drink at “The Den” restaurant and lounge

• Grab a bite at Mac Hall’s massive food court

• See a Calgary Dino’s Football / Volleyball / Hockey / Basketball game

• Volunteer at one of the on-campus events happening weekly

• See one of your favourite musicians live at a MacEwan Hall concert

More Local Activities

Looking for more fun activities in and around Calgary? See our list of Calgary Activities and Events today for updates on some of the best there is!

Also be sure to check out the other 20 plus episodes of do what the locals do for a complete list of fun activities in YYC - brought to you by Calgaryism on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Give us a like and stay updated via your live social media feed today!