What to See Now at the Vancouver Art Gallery (Summer and Fall 2018)

Courtyard entrance

When time permits, I like to check out an art museum when I’m visiting a large city. This being a “gallery” instead of a “museum” made me think twice, but it really has characteristics of both. There is not a permanent collection on display; they rotate exhibits in and out. But it is a not-for-profit and the size and building feel more like a museum.

I didn’t try to tack the entire gallery, but there were three exhibits that really grabbed my interest.

David Milne was a Canadian painter who, at least during his time, was under recognized. His career spanned the first half of the twentieth century. This exhibit is on the first floor on the right. This exhibit alone would have made the trip to the gallery worth it. The influence of European modernists are visible in the early New York pieces on display. But as you progress through the gallery, you can see his unique style develop. I especially like his pre-war paintings that play with shadows, and his stripped-down landscapes towards the end of his career.

You can find Ayumi Goto’s works on the third floor. They are paired with works by Peter Morin, but Ayumi’s 105 small square watercolors with short writings that I spent my time on. In 2013, she ran 1568.5 km over the course of 105 days. At the end of each day she would do a painting and write a short poem or prose. I love the pairing of the two art forms and by doing it daily, every emotion is evoked.

Emily Carr (1871-1945) painted mostly landscapes of British Columbia in Modernist and Post-Impressionist styles. They are stunning and well-worth the trek up to the fourth floor. The richness of her palette, dark greens, cool blues, and earthy browns, transport you deep into the BC wilderness.

Quick Facts – Vancouver Art Gallery

Address: 750 Hornby Street
Hours: 10AM – 5PM
General Admission: $24

Current Exhibits
David Milne: Modern Painting
Until September 9, 2018

Ayumi Goto and Peter Morin: how do you carry the land?
Until October 28, 2018

Emily Carr in Dialogue with Matti Gunterman
Until September 3, 2018