Free First Thursdays
October 5, 2023 | 5:00 - 9:00 PM
On the First Thursday of every month, Contemporary Calgary will be open late with FREE admission from 5-9 pm. Join us for Sneak Peek where we will preview our upcoming exhibitions and provide insight into what we do and why we do it. Explore our galleries, visit the exhibition opening of Sara Lydia Tuell: Waveforms, get an exclusive first look at designs for the City of Calgary’s RiverWalk West project and enjoy thoughtfully crafted beverages by Sugar Water Bar.
Sneak Peek: 5:30-6:30 PM | Theatre
Sara Lydia Tuell: Waveforms, Remarks: 7:15 PM | Atrium
RiverWalk West Project open for engagement: 5-9 PM | Atrium
This is an all-ages event.
Food and beverage will be available for purchase.
Thursday, October 5
5:00 - 9:00pm
FREE with registration
Let us know you’re joining!
Sneak Peek
5:30-6:30 PM | Theatre
Please join us in our newly renovated Theatre from 5:30 to 6:30 for an overview of what’s coming up at Contemporary Calgary. CEO David Leinster and Senior Curator Kanika Anand will preview our upcoming exhibitions and provide insight into what we do and why we do it. They’ll be joined by some special guest speakers and musicians who will help illustrate the breadth of our programming. You’ll be the first to see what’s coming up next!
Seating for this program is first come, first serve.
Sara Lydia Tuell: Waveforms
Exhibition opening October 5, 2023
Remarks: 7:15 PM | Atrium
In this exhibition of print and installation work, Tuell presents her thesis work as a Master of Fine Arts candidate at the University of Calgary.
The artworks explore abstract concepts in quantum physics through perceptual experience. An interactive installation using polarized film in the grand windows of Bow View Hall encourages the viewer to investigate their relationship with the quantum world. Meanwhile, on the ground floor, Tuell’s large-scale print work functions more like a Rorschach Test, enveloping and inviting the viewer to impress their own consciousness upon the work.
Tuell’s work intends to inspire curiosity and promote integration of the arts and sciences as a means of developing human knowledge, understanding and problem-solving in an age that demands creative solutions. The viewer need not be savvy to the complexities of quantum mechanics in order to discover and appreciate the beauty of light and nature: all that is required is to be a curious observer of the world.
RiverWalk West Design Competition | Open For Public Engagement
Calgarians will get an exclusive first look at the new concepts for the future design of Bow River pathway.
Calgary has an incredible pathway system rooted in the confluence of rivers, open skies, and breathable spaces. A favourite among locals and tourists, the river pathway system connects Calgarians to 700 kilometres of scenic pathways. The RiverWalk West project presents an opportunity to create a unique and continuous public promenade from East Village to the west end of downtown past 14 Street S.W.
Recognizing the uniqueness of this pathway system, we have taken a distinct approach to the design of the new space by initiating a design competition. The five finalists for the RiverwalkWest design competition have submitted their design concepts and they will be on display at Contemporary Calgary’s Free First Thursday. This is your chance to see the promenade designs in person and chat with the RiverWalk West project team.
Can’t make it? You can also review the finalists’ designs online between Oct. 4-15. The winning design will be selected by jury and announced early November 2023.
FREE First Thursday Community Partners
Sugar Water Bar
Kyo-Jean Chung started Sugar Water in 2015 as a way of exploring his love for finely crafted cocktails. He has a curiosity for powerful elixirs that percolate ideas and bring people to common ground. His knack for befriending talented people in all realms of culinary arts, mixology, and event planning helps him cultivate fresh ideas and inspired service. He has managed to find the perfect balance between friendliness, professionalism, and lightness throughout his life as an entrepreneur.
