Robert Millang

Traditionally independent art galleries like Latitude 53 were the hub for local art in Edmonton. Now that the Art Gallery of Alberta is built, that has changed. But which institution plays a bigger role in Edmonton’s local art scene? This is a great subject for debate, and we know this will rile a few people up so send us your feedback.

Involving Edmontonians
Indie art galleries have a specific audience. At Latitude 53 only seven exhibits are shown each year, all of which have a target audience. Potentially that means less people will be exposed to the exhibits. However, indie galleries make that up by hosting lessons, seminars, and readings to help Edmontonians connect to art. The AGA provides the same kind of programs. The AGA even provides art education for school children. It’s biggest advantage is the ability to reach a larger audience.
Advantage: AGA

Where do the local artists fit in?
Indie galleries have to work with a smaller space and budget. Those limiting factors create immense competition among local artists to produce good quality artwork for exhibition. Out of the hundreds of applications Latitude 53 receives only seven make the cut. 
In spite of that the AGA has municipal, provincial, and federal endorsements that contribute to their yearly budget, which is just under $6 million. About half of that budget is spent on art exhibits and programs. That means they have the ability to provide 25 exhibits of local talent each year.
Advantage: AGA

Originality
The key concept of good art is originality. If your painting looks exactly like what was made 30 years ago then no one will be interested in it. Originality is the biggest advantage local art galleries have over big galleries like the AGA. They provide the kind of art that cannot be seen anywhere else. The AGA may have the money for well-known art, but that doesn’t mean it can provide exhibits that are as unique. The heart of Edmonton art can be seen inside indie galleries.
Advantage: Indie Galleries

Jobs available for artists?
It is a crying shame that many artists will never be rich or famous. However, the AGA does give an advantage to the starving artist. The AGA employs Edmonton artists to teach workshops and lessons. These employees are an extension of the curator’s staff. Local galleries that provide seminars run on volunteers. They teach because they like art. A noble cause, but it doesn’t put food on the table.
Advantage: AGA

A better hub for the art community
Being apart of the art community means being willing to expand your mind. The building for the AGA is artwork in itself. But that doesn’t mean that it is a good place for the art community to congregate. The average person can walk into the AGA and learn something new each time. But for an artist that has studied the famous works of the past maybe they won’t learn as much. Not to say that they couldn’t learn anything, or that there would be nothing for the art community at the AGA.  But what indie galleries have that the AGA doesn’t is a place for artists to challenge what they have studied about the arts in a space that has no rules.
Advantage: Indie Galleries

Winner: AGA