Discovering art in a new city can be a thrilling adventure, turning an ordinary trip into an unforgettable experience. Or dare we say, an extraordinary one? Each city has a unique artistic flavor, reflecting its culture, history, and the creativity of its residents. We’re lucky to build in some of the best cities and neighborhoods in North America. Learn about a few of our favorite places to check out local art, in this Intracorp Cities Guide article.
VANCOUVER, BC
Kitty Chen (Project Accountant)
Located in North Vancouver, The Polygon Gallery is known for its stunning waterfront location and focus on contemporary photography and media art. The architecture itself is striking, with large windows that create a seamless connection between the art and the natural surroundings. The gallery often showcases innovative and thought-provoking exhibitions, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists.
This gallery is a cultural hub in downtown Vancouver, with a rich collection of Canadian art, particularly Indigenous works. Its exhibitions range from historical to contemporary, and the building itself is an architectural gem. The gallery also offers a variety of programs and events that engage the community and enhance the appreciation of art.
Farouk Babul (VP, Development)
South Granville
South Granville is home to numerous art galleries within a short distance of each other, offering a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums. This makes it easy for art lovers to explore multiple exhibits in one visit. My personal favourite is Bao Xi.
Downtown Vancouver
Downtown Vancouver features a wide variety of public art that is both visually striking and culturally meaningful. I enjoy walking the seawall and interacting with the pieces. Each of these works is iconic in its own way and contributes to the artistic vibrancy of Vancouver! My personal favourites are:
- “A-maze-ing Laughter”: The bronze sculptures by Yue Minjun in English Bay are not just visually striking but also playful and interactive, evoking joy and laughter from everyone who passes by. Their exaggerated expressions make them memorable and fun to engage with.
- The Chandelier: Located under the Granville Street Bridge, Rodney Graham’s “Spinning Chandelier” is both elegant and surprising. It blends luxury with an industrial setting and its periodic spinning adds a dynamic element to the public space.
- “Inukshuk”: This piece by Alvin Kanak, located near Sunset Beach, is a traditional stone structure symbolizing guidance, community and friendship.
SEATTLE, WA
Sam Whitehead (Acquisitions Manager)
Every month they showcase a new artist or group of artists from around the world while still showcasing local artists.
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“Seattle’s favorite art bar” includes a low-lit atmosphere to grab a cocktail and check out new art from local artists.
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Musuem of History & Industry (MOHAI)
Located on the south end of Lake Union, the rotating exhibits at the Museum of History and Industry are complemented by lake views and a great little cafe off Lake Union Park’s waterfront.
Matt Robins (Project Manager)
Alki Arts is an approachable neighborhood gallery that is always showcasing fantastic artists. The owner, Diane Venti, is very community-minded, and frequently hosts events and musicians in the space to bring people together. It is a great asset to the neighborhood.
NEWPORT BEACH, CA
Jessica Fabricant (VP, Marketing)
The diverse collections of the Bowers Museum feature a wide range of cultural artifacts from around the world. The exhibits span different periods and civilizations, from pre-Columbian art to Pacific Islander artifacts, ancient Chinese works, and Native American heritage. This diversity provides a global experience under one roof. Bowers often hosts traveling exhibits from museums worldwide, has enriching educational programs, includes local history (as well as global), and the museum’s architecture is beautiful with a mission-style design centered around outdoor courtyards.
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Sarah Klaustermeier (Senior Development Manager)
Isamu Noguchi’s California Scenario is recognized as one of the country’s preeminent sculpture gardens and the most vital publicly accessible outdoor sculpture oasis in Southern California. One of the artist’s most important public sculpture gardens, its design symbolizes various geographical characteristics of California, incorporating indigenous plants and materials. Six principal elements comprise California Scenario: Forest Walk, Land Use, Desert Land, Water Source, Water Use and Energy Fountain. The garden is free, open to the public and is a very popular ‘Instagrammable’ location.
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Lauren Brundige (Office Administrator)
The Broad is a contemporary art museum located in downtown Los Angeles. Its extensive collection of contemporary features and impressive collection of postwar art make it a significant cultural destination. The museum’s striking architecture and innovative design truly enhance the visitor experience. Additionally, the museum’s location contributes to its vibrant atmosphere, attracting both locals and tourists.
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AUSTIN, TX
Cindy Pope (Director of Homeowner Care & Operations Manager)
The museum has rotating exhibits and events for all ages from Pre-K to college students and adults of all ages. Blanton has niche classes for the public to engage and learn about varied topics in addition to traditional art.
So many hand painted murals (many by local artists) around Austin offer the opportunity for a self-guided tour of the most photographed murals in town.
