CIVIC ART COLLECTION

The Civic Art Collection is the property of The City of Calgary, consisting of over 570 works as of 1999 with growth ranging from 5 to 35 works of art each year. The collection is an irreplaceable public asset with a value of close to 3 million dollars. The stewardship is carried out by the Calgary Allied Art Foundation and include Public Art Projects, Life Cycle Maintenance, Gifts to the City, CAAF Acquisitions, Lending Program, Educational Programming and Public Art Placement.

In 1996, the Calgary Civic Art Collection Policy, approved by City Council, confirmed CAAF's responsibility for stewardship of the Civic Art Collection, and advising The City in all matters related to the visual arts.

WHERE IS THE COLLECTION LOCATED?

The City of Calgary Civic Art Collection is located in “a gallery without walls” with works exhibited in a variety of venues throughout the city. This unique approach ensures the collection is on constant view throughout Calgary.

One of Calgary’s most familiar pieces of art is the sculpture by William McElcheran, titled "The Conversation", which is located on the Stephens Avenue Mall. It depicts two businessmen in their bulky topcoats and too small felt hats, wheeling and dealing. Norcen Energy Resources donated this artwork to the city in 1981.

Located a short distance from the City of Calgary municipal building at the Calgary Board of Education is the Sculptured piece, "Brotherhood of Man", by Robert Cummings. The statues were originally constructed in 1967 in Great Britain and was originally located in the United Kingdom Pavilion at Expo ’67. Purchased by Robert M. Cummings of Maxwell Cummings & Sons it was donated to The City on July 8, 1968 and accepted by the Duke of Kent on behalf of The City.

At Confederation Park you will see a sculpture by Enzo Dipalma titled, "Transition ’67". This work celebrates Canada’s 100th birthday and was donated to The City by the Britamco Club, employees of BA Oil in Calgary. It is constructed of steel and aluminum and has proven flexible enough to withstand the climbing expeditions of over a quarter century of youngsters enjoying the park.

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