Audain Art Museum Permanent Collection
- About the Audain Art Museum Permanent Collection
- Plan Your Visit to the Audain Art Museum
- Curatorial Approach
- Masterpieces of the Collection
- British Columbia Landscapes:
- Indigenous Art
- Contemporary Art
- Interactive Displays
- Educational Programs
- Temporary Exhibitions
- Gift Shop and Bookstore: A Treasure Trove of Art and Culture
- Accessibility Features
- Audio Guides and Tours
- Surrounding Attractions
- Insider Tip: Uncover Hidden Gems
About the Audain Art Museum Permanent Collection
The Audain Art Museum, nestled in the picturesque resort town of Whistler, British Columbia, is a treasure trove of Canadian art. Founded in 2016, the museum houses a remarkable permanent collection that spans over a century of artistic expression. With a focus on British Columbia and First Nations art, the Audain Art Museum offers a journey through the diverse cultural heritage and stunning landscapes that define this region.
The museum's striking architectural design, featuring a combination of wood, stone, and glass, seamlessly blends into the surrounding natural environment. The building, designed by Patkau Architects, pays homage to the region's rich history and architectural traditions. Inside, the museum's spacious galleries and well-curated displays create an immersive and engaging experience for visitors.
The Audain Art Museum's mission is to celebrate and showcase the artistic achievements of Canadian artists, both past and present. With a commitment to fostering a greater appreciation for Canadian art and its global significance, the museum plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the country's unique artistic identity.
Plan Your Visit to the Audain Art Museum
Location and Contact Information: The Audain Art Museum is conveniently located in the heart of Whistler, British Columbia, at 4350 Blackcomb Way. For inquiries, you can contact the museum at (604) 938-8366 or visit their website at audainartmuseum.com.
Operating Hours: The museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, with extended hours on Fridays. Visitors can explore the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions during the following hours:
- Tuesday - Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission Fees: Admission fees to the Audain Art Museum vary depending on the visitor category. Here is a breakdown of the ticket prices:
- Adults: $25
- Seniors (65+): $20
- Students (with valid ID): $18
- Youth (6-18 years): $12
- Children (under 5 years): Free
Discounts and Memberships: The museum offers discounted admission rates for groups of 10 or more. Additionally, visitors can become members of the Audain Art Museum to enjoy unlimited access to the permanent collection, temporary exhibitions, and exclusive events throughout the year. Membership categories and benefits vary, so interested individuals are encouraged to visit the museum's website for more information.
Guided Tours and Educational Programs: The Audain Art Museum offers guided tours led by knowledgeable docents who provide insights into the artworks, artists, and curatorial themes. Tours are available for groups of all sizes and can be booked in advance. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages, including workshops, lectures, and family-friendly activities. These programs are designed to enhance the visitor experience and foster a deeper appreciation for Canadian art.
Curatorial Approach
The Audain Art Museum curates its permanent collection with a distinctly Canadian perspective, showcasing the diverse artistic talent and unique cultural heritage of the region. Thematic exhibitions rotate throughout the year, offering fresh insights and perspectives on the works and their significance. This dynamic approach to curating ensures that visitors experience a continually evolving and engaging presentation of Canadian art.
The museum's curatorial team collaborates with artists, scholars, and community members to develop innovative exhibitions that explore various themes, movements, and artistic practices. These exhibitions often juxtapose historical and contemporary artworks, highlighting the continuity and transformation of Canadian art over time. By presenting diverse artworks in thematic contexts, the museum encourages visitors to make connections and gain a deeper understanding of the richness and complexity of Canadian art.
The Audain Art Museum also places a strong emphasis on integrating Indigenous and contemporary artworks into its permanent collection. Indigenous art holds a vital place in the museum's mandate, with a significant collection of Northwest Coast carvings, paintings, and sculptures that celebrate the region's rich cultural heritage. The museum recognizes the importance of preserving and showcasing Indigenous art, ensuring that these works are accessible and appreciated by a broader audience.
Contemporary art is another focal point of the Audain Art Museum's curatorial approach. The museum features a diverse range of contemporary Canadian artists, from established figures to emerging talents. These works challenge traditional notions of art, explore pressing social and environmental issues, and reflect the dynamism and diversity of contemporary Canadian artistic practice.
The blending of historical, Indigenous, and contemporary artworks creates a vibrant and multifaceted narrative of Canadian art. Through its curatorial approach, the Audain Art Museum not only exhibits works but also provides a platform for dialogue, exploration, and a deeper appreciation of the diverse artistic expressions that shape Canada's cultural identity.
Masterpieces of the Collection
Among the many treasures housed within the Audain Art Museum's permanent collection, several masterpieces stand out for their exceptional artistic value and historical significance. One such masterpiece is Emily Carr's iconic painting, "Big Raven." This powerful and evocative work, created in 1938, captures the essence of the British Columbia wilderness and the spiritual connection between humans and nature. Carr's bold brushstrokes and vibrant colors bring to life the majestic raven, a symbol of transformation and wisdom in Indigenous cultures.
Another highlight of the collection is Lawren Harris's "Mountain Forms." This striking oil painting, created in 1926, exemplifies the artist's signature style of geometric abstraction and his fascination with the Canadian landscape. Harris's use of bold lines and simplified forms conveys a sense of the vastness and grandeur of the Rocky Mountains, capturing the essence of Canada's rugged wilderness.
The collection also features works by other renowned Canadian artists, including Jack Shadbolt, Arthur Lismer, and A.Y. Jackson. Each of these artists brought their unique perspectives and styles to the depiction of Canadian landscapes and identities, contributing to the rich tapestry of Canadian art history.
British Columbia Landscapes:
The Audain Art Museum proudly showcases the breathtaking landscapes of British Columbia, a region renowned for its natural beauty. The collection features a significant number of paintings, photographs, and sculptures that capture the essence of this stunning province. One of the highlights is the work of the Group of Seven, a renowned group of Canadian landscape painters who played a pivotal role in shaping the country's artistic identity. Their iconic paintings, such as A.Y. Jackson's "Mountain Lake, Jasper Park" and Lawren Harris's "The Mountain," depict the rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and vast forests that characterize the Canadian wilderness.
Other notable artworks in this section include Emily Carr's "The Forest, British Columbia," which portrays the lush rainforests of the Pacific Northwest, and Jack Shadbolt's "Vancouver Island Landscape," which captures the vibrant colors and textures of the island's coastal scenery. These masterpieces not only showcase the beauty of British Columbia's natural landscapes but also provide a glimpse into the artistic movements and styles that have shaped Canadian art.
Indigenous Art
The Audain Art Museum houses a remarkable collection of Indigenous art, including a significant number of Northwest Coast carvings. These intricate and visually stunning works of art offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Indigenous peoples of British Columbia. The museum's collection includes totem poles, masks, and other carvings that showcase the unique artistic traditions of the region. By preserving and celebrating these artworks, the Audain Art Museum plays a vital role in supporting and promoting Indigenous cultural identity.
The museum's Indigenous art collection also includes works by contemporary Indigenous artists, who are using traditional and modern techniques to create powerful and thought-provoking pieces. These artists explore themes of identity, history, and the ongoing relationship between Indigenous peoples and non-Indigenous society. Through their art, they challenge stereotypes and offer new perspectives on Indigenous experiences. The Audain Art Museum's commitment to showcasing contemporary Indigenous art helps to ensure that these important voices are heard and celebrated.
Contemporary Art
The Audain Art Museum showcases a dynamic and ever-evolving collection of contemporary Canadian art, reflecting the diverse range of artistic expressions and perspectives shaping the contemporary art landscape. From established masters to emerging talents, the museum celebrates the innovative and thought-provoking works that push artistic boundaries and challenge conventional norms.
The collection encompasses a wide variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and video installations. Visitors can explore the diverse styles and themes that characterize contemporary Canadian art, from abstract expressionism and conceptual art to photorealism and multimedia installations.
Some of the notable contemporary artists featured in the collection include Douglas Coupland, whose iconic works explore themes of identity, consumerism, and technology; Rodney Graham, known for his playful and surreal photographs and installations; and Stan Douglas, whose large-scale photographic works examine historical narratives and social issues.
The museum's commitment to contemporary art extends beyond its collection. It regularly hosts temporary exhibitions featuring the latest works by established and emerging artists, providing a platform for dialogue and critical engagement with contemporary art practices. Through these exhibitions, the museum aims to foster a vibrant and dynamic contemporary art scene in Canada and encourage a deeper appreciation for the diverse voices and perspectives that shape it.
Interactive Displays
The Audain Art Museum embraces technology and digital media to enhance the visitor experience and make art more accessible. Interactive exhibits and educational displays engage visitors of all ages, creating a dynamic and immersive environment. Touchscreens and interactive panels provide in-depth information about the artworks, allowing visitors to explore the themes, techniques, and historical context behind each piece. Virtual reality experiences transport visitors to the landscapes depicted in the paintings, offering a unique perspective on the artist's vision. These interactive elements not only make the museum more enjoyable but also encourage visitors to think critically about the artwork and its significance.
Educational Programs
The Audain Art Museum offers a variety of educational programs and workshops designed to engage visitors of all ages with the museum's collection and exhibitions. These programs are tailored to different interests and learning styles, making them suitable for families, students, and art enthusiasts alike.
One of the most popular programs is the Family Art Studio, which provides hands-on art-making activities for children and their families. Led by experienced art educators, these workshops encourage creativity, exploration, and a deeper understanding of the artworks on display.
For those interested in exploring the museum's collection in more depth, Docent-led tours are available on a regular basis. These tours are led by knowledgeable museum docents who share insights into the artworks, the artists, and the curatorial process. Visitors can choose from a variety of tour themes, including highlights of the permanent collection, Indigenous art, and contemporary art.
The museum also offers a variety of workshops and lectures throughout the year. These programs cover a wide range of topics, from art history and techniques to contemporary art practices. Led by artists, curators, and other experts in the field, these workshops provide a unique opportunity for visitors to learn from and interact with professionals in the art world.
To register for educational programs and workshops, visitors can visit the museum's website or inquire at the front desk. The museum also offers a variety of online resources, including virtual tours, art activities, and educational materials, making it possible for visitors to engage with the museum's collection from anywhere in the world.
Temporary Exhibitions
In addition to its permanent collection, the Audain Art Museum presents a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions that complement and expand upon the core artworks. These exhibitions showcase a diverse range of themes, artistic practices, and historical periods, offering visitors an ever-changing perspective on Canadian art. Past temporary exhibitions have explored the works of renowned Canadian artists such as Emily Carr, David Milne, and Jack Shadbolt, as well as emerging contemporary artists pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.
The museum's temporary exhibitions often feature collaborations with other institutions, bringing together diverse collections and perspectives. These exhibitions provide a platform for dialogue and exchange, fostering a vibrant and dynamic art scene in Whistler and beyond. By presenting a mix of established and emerging artists, the Audain Art Museum ensures that visitors have the opportunity to experience a wide range of artistic styles and approaches, deepening their understanding of Canadian art and its ongoing evolution.
Gift Shop and Bookstore: A Treasure Trove of Art and Culture
The Audain Art Museum's gift shop and bookstore offer a delightful shopping experience for art enthusiasts and souvenir seekers alike. Located in the museum's lobby, the shop is a treasure trove of unique items that celebrate Canadian art and culture.
Browse through a carefully curated selection of books on art history, local culture, and the works of featured artists. Discover a wide range of art-inspired gifts, including prints, posters, jewelry, ceramics, and home décor. Each item is carefully chosen to reflect the museum's commitment to showcasing Canadian talent.
The gift shop also supports local artists and artisans by featuring their handcrafted creations. Find one-of-a-kind pieces that capture the spirit of Whistler and British Columbia. From intricate jewelry to hand-blown glass, these items make for cherished keepsakes or thoughtful gifts.
Be sure to check out the special events and workshops held at the gift shop throughout the year. Participate in hands-on art activities, meet local artists, and learn new skills while immersing yourself in the vibrant art scene of Whistler.
Accessibility Features
The Audain Art Museum is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all visitors, regardless of their abilities. The museum offers a range of accessibility features to ensure that everyone can enjoy and engage with the artwork.
Wheelchair users and visitors with limited mobility can easily navigate the museum's galleries and public spaces. Ramps and elevators provide access to all levels of the building, and accessible restrooms are available on each floor. The museum also offers a limited number of wheelchairs for visitor use.
Visitors with visual impairments can take advantage of the museum's audio guides, which provide detailed descriptions of the artworks. The museum also offers a Braille guide to the collection, and staff members are available to provide assistance and guidance.
Visitors with hearing impairments can request a sign language interpreter for guided tours or educational programs. The museum also offers a variety of visual aids, such as captioning and transcripts, to enhance the visitor experience.
The Audain Art Museum is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors. By offering a range of accessibility features, the museum ensures that everyone can enjoy and appreciate the artwork and learn more about Canadian art and culture.
Audio Guides and Tours
Enhance your visit to the Audain Art Museum with the museum's comprehensive audio guides and guided tours. These valuable resources offer deeper insights into the artworks, providing historical context, artistic techniques, and cultural significance.
Audio Guides:
Rent an audio guide at the museum's front desk to embark on a self-guided tour at your own pace. With detailed commentary on selected artworks, the audio guides provide engaging narratives and educational information. Listen to curatorial insights, artist interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories that bring the collection to life.
Guided Tours:
Join a knowledgeable museum guide for an in-depth exploration of the Audain Art Museum's permanent collection. Guided tours are offered daily and provide a structured and informative experience. Learn about the museum's history, the curatorial approach, and the significance of specific artworks. Engage in lively discussions and ask questions as the guide leads you through the galleries.
Whether you prefer the flexibility of an audio guide or the personalized attention of a guided tour, these resources will enrich your visit to the Audain Art Museum. Enhance your understanding of the collection and gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse range of Canadian art showcased within its walls.
Surrounding Attractions
Nestled in the heart of Whistler, the Audain Art Museum is conveniently surrounded by an array of other attractions and activities that will enhance your visit. For a touch of adventure, embark on a thrilling zipline experience at the Whistler Zipline Tours, soaring through the towering forests and taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Alternatively, explore the diverse terrain of Whistler on a mountain bike, with numerous trails catering to all skill levels.
After an invigorating day of outdoor exploration, relax and rejuvenate at the renowned Scandinave Spa, renowned for its authentic Scandinavian baths and treatments. Indulge in a soothing massage, soak in the mineral-rich pools, and embrace the tranquility of the serene forest setting. For an immersive cultural experience, visit the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, where you can learn about the rich history and traditions of the Squamish and Lil'wat First Nations through interactive exhibits, guided tours, and captivating performances.
Whistler's culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its landscape. From casual cafes to fine dining establishments, there's something to satisfy every palate. For a taste of local cuisine, visit the Whistler Farmers' Market, where you can browse fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts from local vendors. For a unique dining experience, book a table at the Bearfoot Bistro, renowned for its exquisite seafood dishes and impressive wine list.
Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or culinary delights, Whistler offers a plethora of experiences to complement your visit to the Audain Art Museum. Embrace the diverse offerings of this vibrant resort town and create lasting memories in the heart of British Columbia's stunning natural beauty.
Insider Tip: Uncover Hidden Gems
As you explore the Audain Art Museum, keep an eye out for hidden gems that may go unnoticed by most visitors. One such gem is the serene sculpture garden located at the back of the museum. This tranquil oasis offers a contemplative space to reflect on the artworks you've seen inside. Take a moment to sit among the sculptures, surrounded by nature, and let the art continue to inspire you.
Another insider tip is to visit the museum's online collection database before your visit. This allows you to research and identify specific artworks that you're particularly interested in seeing. The database provides detailed information on each piece, including its history, significance, and location within the museum. By planning ahead, you can make sure you don't miss any must-see masterpieces during your visit.
