The Grande Prairie Art Museum
Check Out Grande Prairie's Art Gallery
Talented artists have been apart of the Peace Country for as long as the city was founded, learn more about them and why you should visit the Art Gallery today.
Learn More About The Grande Prairie Art Museum and Why You Should Visit Today
Perhaps hidden away (but in plain sight) is the Grande Prairie Art Gallery. When most people think of things to do within the city the historic Art Museum is one of the few things that gets brought up yet it still provides incredible history and detail on the cities artistic past.
The Art Gallery is a nonprofit organization (aggp.ca about how we support nonprofits) that was created way back in 1974 when a group of art enthusiasts and Grande Prairie citizens took it upon themselves to begin the process of opening an art gallery within the city. Shortly after in 1975 the Art Gallery opened.
Not knowing how long the fabled Art Gallery would stay open it was first in a chemistry lab supplied by the Grande Prairie Regional College before moving to a download location. It would stay there for a short period of time before having to return to the chemistry lab provided by the College. In 1981 it finally found a new home.
A New Chapter: Art Gallery of Grande Prairie Finds a Home
Speke Hall Transformed Into a Cultural Landmark
Led by Mary LeMessurier, the new Art Gallery opened after a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The building, formerly known as "Speke Hall," was transformed to provide a more artistic experience. Thanks to the tireless efforts of volunteers, generous donations, and strong community support, the Art Gallery finally found itself on sturdy ground.
Tragedy Strikes: The Roof Collapse of 2007
In 2007, a heavy snowfall nearly caused the roof to collapse, destroying more than half the gallery. Fortunately, no one was injured, and no artworks were damaged. However, the Gallery’s operations would change forever. From 2007 to 2009, the Art Gallery operated from a temporary location while dedicated staff continued offering classes and exhibitions to the community.
Rebuilding and Renewal: A Cultural Comeback
In 2009, the City of Grande Prairie opened the new Art Gallery in the Montrose Cultural Centre. The collapsed roof was renovated and beautifully restored, giving the Gallery a permanent and inspiring new home. By 2012, it reopened fully to the public. Plans are still underway to connect the original 1929 building to the current structure.