At Contemporary Calgary, we exist to create a place of wonder and belonging. We believe everyone is invited to imagine, learn, and understand the world we share through the power of contemporary art. As a non-collecting public art gallery, we present local, national, and international contemporary art in all its forms, sparking conversations around the ideas of our time.
Last year, we welcomed Mona Filip as our Chief Curator. Her vision initiates a bold new chapter of immersive programming that reimagines how art engages with our architecture and its history as a space dedicated to exploring the universe. Filip’s inaugural curatorial projects, Entwined and Nelly-Eve Rajotte’s Trees communicate with each other at 220 hertz, are currently on view, offering a first look at our new era of programming with her at the helm.
“With Entwined and Nelly-Eve Rajotte’s Trees communicate with each other at 220 hertz, we mark more than the opening of new exhibitions—we mark the beginning of a new chapter for Contemporary Calgary. As Mona Filip unveils her first curated projects as our Chief Curator, she brings an inspiring and thoughtful vision for how our historic planetarium can be activated in bold, imaginative ways. This moment also reflects the remarkable work and dedication of our curatorial and exhibitions teams, whose efforts have brought us to this point and continue to shape our evolution. We invite our community to welcome Mona, celebrate all that has carried us here and share in the excitement of what lies ahead as we transform this extraordinary building into a place of wonder, connection and possibility.” – David Leinster, CEO of Contemporary Calgary
Our building is brought to life through diverse public programming, from recurring monthly offerings like Contemporary Kids and all-ages Saturday Drop-in Art-Making to our Perspective Film Series and Open Studio for 55+. Be sure to stop by for Free First Thursday, where on the first Thursday of every month, we stay open late, offering a free opportunity to explore our galleries and connect with the community. Beyond these recurring series, we offer workshops, artist panels, and partner programming in the Heather Edwards Theatre. Through the generosity of Heather Edwards, this theatre has become an inspiring space dedicated to showcasing all forms of the arts in Calgary. By offering this venue at an accessible rate, we remain committed to making a meaningful impact on our local arts ecosystem.
As we look toward the future, we are also reimagining our physical footprint through the Centennial Planetarium Transformation Project. This project includes a new street-level entrance pavilion, a three-story education and gallery wing, and the transformation of our iconic Dome into a flat-floor LED Dome—the first of its kind in Canada.
“This project is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine an architectural gem and create a space that is both innovative and deeply connected to the community. The combination of historical preservation and contemporary design will set a new benchmark for cultural institutions in Canada.” – Bruce Kuwabara, O.C., Founding Partner, KPMB Architects
To sustain our vision, we rely on the energy of our community. On May 2, 2026, we invite you to LOOK26 Gala: Off The Path, presented by MAWER. This year’s gala is brought to life by local artist duo DaveandJenn, whose work creates whimsical worlds filled with delight, enchantment, and untamed life.
Ahead of the gala, the LOOK26 Art Auction, supported by Heather Edwards, opens for public viewing on April 2 from 5-9 PM. This year’s auction features pieces for everyone, from those looking to become collectors to established enthusiasts. Pieces from the silent auction will be available for bidding throughout the month, with the auction officially closing the evening of May 2. Whether you join us for the full night or slip in after dark, LOOK is your opportunity to support Contemporary Calgary and celebrate the magic of art and community. All gala tickets include a one-year membership.