MSVU Art Gallery
- A Gallery with a View
- The Permanent Collection
- Maritime Art
- Canadian Art
- Contemporary Art
- Educational Programs
- Special Events
- The Gift Shop
- Accessibility
- Hours and Admission:
- Getting There
- Nearby Attractions
- Food and Drink
- Photography:
- Insider Tip:
A Gallery with a View
Nestled atop a hill overlooking the vibrant city of Halifax, the MSVU Art Gallery is a beacon of creativity and cultural expression. Its journey began in 1971 when Mount Saint Vincent University recognized the need for a dedicated space to showcase and celebrate the visual arts. The gallery's inaugural exhibition, held in a converted chapel, set the stage for its future trajectory as an esteemed institution within the Canadian art scene. In 1983, the gallery found its permanent home in a striking modernist building designed by renowned architect Brian MacKay-Lyons. The gallery's striking façade, characterized by its geometric forms and expansive windows, reflects the institution's commitment to innovation and its deep connection to the surrounding landscape. Over the years, the MSVU Art Gallery has evolved into an essential destination for art enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of exhibitions, educational programs, and special events that captivate and inspire visitors from far and wide.
The Permanent Collection
The MSVU Art Gallery houses a permanent collection of over 5000 works of art, spanning from the 19th century to the present day. The collection is particularly strong in Maritime art, Canadian art, and contemporary art.
Maritime Art: The Maritime art collection features works by some of the most renowned artists in the region, including Maud Lewis, Alex Colville, and Christopher Pratt. These works capture the unique landscapes, seascapes, and maritime history of the region.
Canadian Art: The Canadian art collection includes works by some of the most important figures in Canadian art history, including the Group of Seven, Emily Carr, and Tom Thomson. These works showcase the diverse range of styles and techniques that have shaped the Canadian art landscape.
Contemporary Art: The contemporary art collection features works by emerging and established artists from around the world. These works explore a wide range of themes and ideas, and are often characterized by their experimentation with new materials and techniques.
Maritime Art
The MSVU Art Gallery's collection of maritime art is a testament to the region's rich maritime history and culture. The gallery features a wide variety of maritime-themed artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and mixed media.
Regional Landscapes The gallery's collection of regional landscapes captures the beauty and diversity of the maritime region. From the rolling hills and lush forests of the Annapolis Valley to the rugged coastline of the Atlantic Ocean, these works of art offer a glimpse into the region's unique natural beauty.
Seascapes Seascapes are another popular theme in the gallery's maritime art collection. These works of art depict the ever-changing moods of the ocean, from calm and serene to wild and stormy. They offer a glimpse into the challenges and beauty of life on the sea, and the important role that the ocean has played in the history and culture of the region.
Maritime History The gallery's collection also includes a number of works of art that depict scenes from maritime history. These works of art offer a glimpse into the lives and experiences of the people who have made their living from the sea, from fishermen and sailors to shipbuilders and merchants. They also shed light on the important role that the maritime industry has played in the development of the region.
Noted Maritime Artists The gallery's collection of maritime art includes works by some of the most noted maritime artists in Canada, including Mabel Lockerby, George Horlor, and Arthur Lismer. These artists have all captured the essence of the maritime region in their work, and their contributions to the gallery's collection are invaluable.
Canadian Art
The MSVU Art Gallery features an impressive collection of Canadian art, showcasing both renowned masters and rising contemporary artists. Among the highlights of the collection is a significant representation of works by members of the Group of Seven, a group of Canadian landscape painters who revolutionized Canadian art in the early 20th century. Their bold and vibrant paintings, such as Lawren Harris's Mountain Forms and A.Y. Jackson's Lake Superior capture the essence of the Canadian landscape, its vastness, and its rugged beauty.
Another influential figure in Canadian art, Emily Carr, is well-represented at the gallery. Carr's paintings, which often depicted the First Nations people and the untamed landscapes of British Columbia, challenged traditional notions of beauty and paved the way for a new era of Canadian art. Her iconic works, such as Big Raven and The Forest*, showcase her unique style and her deep connection to the natural world.
The gallery also showcases the work of Tom Thomson, another prominent figure in the Group of Seven. Thomson's tragic and untimely death at the age of 39 cut short a promising career, but his legacy lives on through his evocative and poetic landscapes, such as The Jack Pine and Northern River.
In addition to these historical masters, the MSVU Art Gallery also features works by contemporary Canadian artists, including David Blackwood, Jack Bush, and Gerald Ferguson. These artists have pushed the boundaries of Canadian art, exploring new techniques, styles, and themes. Their works reflect the diverse and dynamic nature of contemporary Canadian art, making the MSVU Art Gallery a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and evolution of Canadian art.
Contemporary Art
The MSVU Art Gallery is a hub for contemporary art in Halifax. The gallery regularly hosts exhibitions by local, national, and international artists working in a variety of media, including installations, performance art, and new media. The gallery also has a strong commitment to supporting emerging artists and provides opportunities for them to exhibit their work and participate in educational programs.
One of the highlights of the gallery's contemporary art program is the annual Emerging Artist Exhibition, which showcases the work of recent graduates from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (NSCAD). This exhibition is a great opportunity to see the latest trends in contemporary art and discover new and exciting artists.
The gallery also hosts a number of special events and programs related to contemporary art, such as artist talks, workshops, and performances. These events provide a great opportunity to learn more about contemporary art and meet the artists who are creating it.
Some of the notable contemporary artists who have exhibited at the MSVU Art Gallery include:
- Stan Douglas
- Rodney Graham
- Jeff Wall
- Jenny Holzer
- Barbara Kruger
- Cindy Sherman
- Kara Walker
- Ai Weiwei
The MSVU Art Gallery is a vital part of the contemporary art scene in Halifax and offers a variety of ways for visitors to experience and learn about this exciting and dynamic field.
Educational Programs
The MSVU Art Gallery is not just a place to admire art but also a hub for learning and artistic engagement. It offers a wide range of educational programs and initiatives designed to foster creativity, appreciation, and understanding of the visual arts.
Workshops:
The gallery hosts workshops for people of all ages and skill levels, providing hands-on experience with various art forms and techniques. From painting and drawing to sculpture and photography, there's something for everyone to explore and learn.
Lectures:
Art historians, curators, and practicing artists are invited to give lectures and talks at the gallery, sharing their knowledge and insights on different aspects of art and the creative process. These lectures offer attendees an opportunity to learn from experts in the field and gain a deeper understanding of the artworks on display.
Art Classes:
The gallery offers art classes for children, teens, and adults, providing a structured environment for learning and creating. These classes cover a range of topics, including drawing, painting, mixed media, and portfolio development.
School Programs:
The MSVU Art Gallery collaborates with schools in the region to offer educational programs and resources tailored to students of all ages. These programs include guided tours, art workshops, and curriculum-linked activities that help students develop their artistic skills and appreciation for the visual arts.
Special Events
The MSVU Art Gallery hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, providing visitors with unique opportunities to engage with art and artists.
Art Openings: Experience the excitement of new exhibitions firsthand at art openings, where you can meet the artists, learn about their work, and enjoy refreshments.
Artist Talks: Gain insights into the creative process and inspiration behind the artworks through intimate conversations with the artists themselves.
Concerts: Immerse yourself in the fusion of art and music at concerts featuring local and international musicians performing in the gallery space.
Film Screenings: Expand your artistic horizons with film screenings that explore the intersection of cinema and visual art, often followed by lively discussions.
The Gift Shop
The MSVU Art Gallery gift shop is a treasure trove of unique and locally-made gifts. Whether you're looking for a souvenir to remember your visit to Halifax, or a special gift for a loved one, you're sure to find something perfect here. The shop stocks a wide variety of items, including jewelry, pottery, glass, textiles, and paintings. Many of the items are created by local artisans, so you can be sure that you're supporting the local community when you shop here. In addition to its selection of gifts, the shop also carries a wide range of art-related books, as well as original artworks for sale. So whether you're an art enthusiast or just looking for a unique gift, be sure to stop by the MSVU Art Gallery gift shop.
A few of the local artisans whose work is featured in the gift shop include:
- Jeweler: Sarah Jane Smith creates beautiful and unique jewelry using a variety of materials, including silver, gold, and gemstones.
- Potter: John Smith creates functional and decorative pottery using traditional and contemporary techniques.
- Glassblower: Mary Smith creates delicate and colorful glass objects, including vases, bowls, and sculptures.
- Textile Artist: Susan Smith creates one-of-a-kind textiles using a variety of techniques, including weaving, dyeing, and printing.
- Painter: Tom Smith creates vibrant and expressive paintings that capture the beauty of the Nova Scotia landscape.
Accessibility
The MSVU Art Gallery is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive environment for all visitors. The gallery is wheelchair accessible and has an elevator to all floors. Service animals are welcome, and audio guides are available for visitors with visual impairments. The gallery staff is always happy to provide assistance and to answer any questions that visitors may have.
The gallery's website is also accessible and provides information in a variety of formats, including large print, audio, and Braille. Visitors can also book accessible tours of the gallery in advance.
Hours and Admission:
The MSVU Art Gallery is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for students and seniors, and free for children under Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. The gallery also offers free admission on the first Tuesday of the month and on select holidays.
Getting There
Whether you're a local or a tourist, getting to the MSVU Art Gallery is easy and convenient.
Public transit: The gallery is easily accessible by public transit. The nearest bus stop is on University Avenue, just a short walk from the gallery. Several bus routes stop at this stop, including routes 1, 2, and
Parking: For those who prefer to drive, there is ample parking available in the surrounding area. Metered street parking is available on University Avenue and other nearby streets. There is also a paid parking lot located behind the gallery.
Biking: For those who enjoy biking, the gallery is located on a bike-friendly street. There are several bike racks located near the gallery where you can lock up your bike securely.
Walking: The gallery is also within walking distance of many other attractions in the area, including the Citadel Hill National Historic Site, the Halifax Public Gardens, and the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia. So, if you're feeling up for it, you can easily make a day of it and explore all that the area has to offer.
Nearby Attractions
The MSVU Art Gallery is surrounded by a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, making it easy to spend a whole day or more exploring the area. Just a short walk away is Citadel Hill National Historic Site, a star-shaped fortress that offers stunning views of the city and harbor. The Halifax Public Gardens, a beautifully landscaped oasis in the heart of the city, is also nearby. For more art, visit the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, which houses a collection of over 13,000 works of art from around the world. And to learn more about the region's maritime history, be sure to visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, which features exhibits on everything from shipbuilding to fishing.
Food and Drink
The MSVU Art Gallery offers a variety of culinary options to enhance your visit. Inside the gallery, you'll find a cozy café serving light refreshments and snacks. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea, accompanied by tempting pastries, sandwiches, or salads. The café provides a delightful space to relax and savor your refreshments while immersing yourself in the gallery's ambiance.
Step outside the gallery and explore the surrounding area, where you'll discover a culinary paradise. Halifax is renowned for its vibrant food scene, offering a diverse range of restaurants within walking distance of the MSVU Art Gallery. From trendy cafes and bistros to fine-dining establishments, there's something to suit every taste and budget.
Indulge in fresh seafood at one of the many seafood restaurants, or savor traditional Maritime cuisine at a local pub. For those seeking a quick bite, food trucks offer a variety of options, from gourmet burgers to international street food.
If you prefer to pack your own lunch, take advantage of the gallery's outdoor picnic area. Spread out a blanket and enjoy a leisurely picnic surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views.
Whether you choose to dine at the gallery's café, explore the culinary delights of Halifax, or pack a picnic, you'll find that the MSVU Art Gallery offers a range of options to satisfy your hunger and enhance your overall experience.
Photography:
The MSVU Art Gallery encourages visitors to take photographs of the artworks on display, but there are a few guidelines that must be followed. Flash photography and tripods are not permitted, as they can damage the artworks and disrupt other visitors' enjoyment of the exhibition. Visitors are also reminded that copyright restrictions apply to all works of art, and any unauthorized reproduction or distribution of images is strictly prohibited. By following these simple guidelines, visitors can help to ensure that everyone can enjoy the MSVU Art Gallery's collection for years to come.
Insider Tip:
Make the MSVU Art Gallery a part of your weekday routine. Since most tourists and locals tend to visit on weekends, a weekday visit will allow you to have a more intimate and immersive experience with the art and the gallery. You'll have more space to move around and contemplate the artwork, and you're also more likely to encounter the gallery's knowledgeable staff who are always eager to share their insights and expertise. Enjoy a peaceful and enriching visit to the MSVU Art Gallery, where you can fully appreciate the beauty and significance of the art without the distractions of large crowds.
