Latitude 53 Gallery, Edmonton

Latitude 53 is Alberta’s leading center for contemporary visual art, known for its bold spirit of experimentation, community engagement, and deep commitment to supporting artists. Founded in 1973 by a group of Edmonton-based artists, it has grown into one of the oldest and most respected artist-run centers in Canada, playing a vital role in fostering contemporary art across the Prairies.

Latitude 53 is more than just a gallery-it’s a space for dialogue, research, and creative risk-taking. The organization consistently champions thought-provoking and boundary-pushing work by local, national, and international artists. Over the decades, it has presented formative exhibitions by notable figures such as Janet Cardiff, Kent Monkman, and Lauren Crazybull, often at pivotal early stages of their careers.

Latitude 53 also has a history of catalyzing other artist-led initiatives, having supported the development of SNAP, CARFAC, and what is now the Alberta Foundation for the Arts. Since becoming a registered charity in 1978, it has maintained a strong ethical foundation, advocating for artists while cultivating inclusive and equitable spaces for dialogue and creation.

Recognized for its enduring impact, the gallery continues to bridge art and community, while Artexte in Montreal holds an impressive 69 of its exhibition catalogs-a testament to its national influence. Through artist support, experimental practices, and a welcoming, inclusive ethos, Latitude 53 stands as a dynamic site where contemporary art and critical ideas intersect in Northern Alberta.