Edmonton modern

The Art Gallery of Alberta presents Capital Modern: Edmonton Architecture and Urban Design 1940-1969. Like many cities across North America, Edmonton has a wealth of modern architecture that is under-appreciated, yet significant. In fact, Edmonton was a leader in modern building during the period from post-World War II to the 1970s, due to the oil boom that spurred development and created a desire to be progressive. The exhibition highlights modern design from the small scale (furniture, art, single-family homes) to the large (urban planning). A series of archival photographs, drawings and models – along with new photography by James Dow – will show how Edmonton led the nation at the time.

The opening of the exhibition will be preceded by a symposium (June 8) on Making the Modern, with speakers to include such notables as Kenneth Frampton, John Patkau, Fred Valentine, Brian MacKay-Lyons, Brigitte Shim and Trevor Boddy.

The exhibition runs from June 8 to Aug. 26 at the gallery’s temporary location at Enterprise Square.