Esker Foundation

To provide a place for Calgarians to enjoy contemporary art. That’s why Jim and Susan Hill – long-time Calgary entrepreneurs and art lovers – founded the Esker Foundation in Calgary’s Inglewood district in 2012. “They’re huge believers in the experiential value art brings, both to individuals and to communities,” says Aeryn Twidle, the foundation’s marketing and operations coordinator. In fact, the Esker Foundation is the largest, privately funded, non-commercial, contemporary art gallery in Calgary.

The curatorial team at the Esker Foundation assembles contemporary art exhibitions designed around themes “that are relevant to contemporary social issues,” says Aeryn. For example, one exhibition revolved around the design of public spaces and architecture, while another – called “Terms of Engagement” – showcased work exploring “terms of engagement” in warfare.

There are three major exhibition changes each year that correspond with the seasons. The artists whose work is on display come from a wide geographical area and use media ranging from photography and video to painting and sculpture. “We try to keep it interesting,” says Aeryn.

In order to make that contemporary art experience accessible to as many people as possible, admission to the Esker Foundation exhibitions is free. “We’re focused on audience engagement and have work that is relevant to peoples’ daily lives; whether you're dropping by alone or in a group, admission is never an issue,” says Aeryn.

Esker also curates a street-level art space – The Project Space – facing 9 Avenue SE, which showcases the work of emerging Calgary artists.