Why Everyone’s Talking About Lethbridge’s Most Unexpected Cultural Hub

By Westwind Weekly on June 19, 2025.

The Southern Alberta Art Gallery (SAAG), located in Lethbridge, Alberta, is a celebrated institution dedicated to showcasing contemporary art and amplifying the voices of diverse artists. Known by its Blackfoot name, Maansiksikaitsitapiitsinikssin, which translates to “the new making of images,” SAAG honours its connection to the Blackfoot Confederacy and the lands it stands on.

SAAG offers something exceptional for everyone. Here’s what makes SAAG a must-visit destination and how you can become part of its inspiring mission.

Connecting Art and Community

SAAG is a cultural hub that bridges contemporary art with meaningful community engagement. The name Maansiksikaitsitapiitsinikssin signifies a new way of storytelling through images and writing, rooted in Indigenous traditions. This connection not only honors the Blackfoot Confederacy but also elevates the dialogue around cultural reconciliation and respect. Learn more about the Blackfoot name and its significance on the SAAG website.

Current Exhibitions

The gallery presents dynamic and thought-provoking exhibitions that explore a wide array of artistic mediums and themes. Some current highlights include:

• Arts Alive and Well in the Schools 2025: Showcasing the creative works of K-12 students from the Lethbridge area. This vibrant exhibit celebrates the importance of art education.
• Generative Prompt by Michelle Sylvestre: A mentorship program that blends art-making with community building.
• Shop at SAAG Feature Artist L.C. Cariou: A spotlight on the gifted artist and her unique works available for purchase. Learn about L.C. Cariou’s work and see her beautiful work on the SAAG website.

SAAG is continually updating its lineup to reflect the evolving landscape of contemporary art. Stay up to date with the current exhibitions by checking their online event page.

Visiting SAAG

Planning a trip to SAAG? Here’s what you need to know:

• Hours and Admission: The gallery is open Wednesdays through Saturdays, with free admission on every First Friday of the month.
• Accessibility: The gallery is wheelchair accessible, and service dogs are welcome. SAAG is committed to making the arts available for everyone. Transit and Parking: Conveniently located in downtown Lethbridge, SAAG is easily accessible by transit and bike.

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How to Support SAAG

The Southern Alberta Art Gallery thrives thanks to the generosity of its supporters. There are several ways to ensure SAAG continues to enrich lives through art:

• Monthly Giving Through the Centennial Club: Join a program designed for sustainable support while enjoying donor benefits like access to special events.
• One-Time Donations: Even a small contribution can make a big impact.
• Volunteer or Sponsor an Event: Be part of SAAG’s mission to make art accessible.

Your support not only sustains SAAG’s innovative programming but also helps promote the cultural vitality of Lethbridge and Southern Alberta.

Visit SAAG this Summer

The Southern Alberta Art Gallery holds a unique place in the cultural fabric of the region. It’s a space for dialogue, learning, and community building. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through Lethbridge, a visit to SAAG is an enriching experience you won’t want to miss. To learn more about their events, programs, or how to get involved, visit saag.ca.

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Nerissa McNaughton is a freelance writer and a contributor to Alberta Newspaper Group. This story was written for the Alberta Newspaper Groups  Summer Escapes Guide advertising feature. Summer Escapes is a special feature about things to do in Alberta this summer. Activities like, staycations, road trips, camping, and other adventures including local attractions, events and  food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.

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