EDMONTON, AB.- The Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA) unveiled today the new look, and new experience, that will characterize the Gallery well past its opening in January 2010.

The new logo is the acronym for the Art Gallery of Alberta, AGA, presented as overlapping letters of vivid tones of orange, red and green. The logo is made up of three identical elements: a trio of lower case “a” characters with one inverted to become a “g.” This simple shift creates a new entity that encourages new ways of looking and connecting.

“Our vibrant logo reflects the personality and direction of the new AGA. By using themes of surprise, openness, innovation and connection, it reinforces our renewed commitment to bringing together art, people and ideas,” says Gilles Hébert, AGA Executive Director.

Designed by Edmonton-based Vision Creative Inc., the logo is based on brand research findings on the public’s perception of the Gallery, as well as the AGA’s re-envisioned approaches to programming and engaging existing and new audiences.

“Exhibitions and programs at the new AGA will provoke, inspire and surprise. The AGA will be a place where people of all ages can connect with art, artists and ideas in an atmosphere intended to stir the imagination and encourage creativity and critical thinking,” says Catherine Crowston, AGA Deputy Director/Chief Curator.

The new AGA will be a forum for the discussion of ideas in the public realm, through initiatives such as artists’ and idea forums, visiting lecturers, art history classes. The AGA hopes to support the interdisciplinary nature of the local arts community through the incorporation of film and performance-based programming into its activities. A diverse array of exciting public programs for families, youth and adults, ranging from hands-on art activities, guided tours and late night events will be offered through out the year.

The AGA’s exhibitions reflect the diversity of media and conceptual approaches that exist within art today. Through this range of exhibitions, Alberta audiences have the opportunity to see significant work by artists from around the world as well as the work of Alberta artists through such projects as the Alberta Biennial of Contemporary Art and the RBC New Works Gallery initiative.

In the new building, the AGA’s exhibition programming focus will expand to feature more international exhibitions produced in partnership with Canadian and international museums. The AGA curatorial staff will continue to develop original exhibitions for Alberta audiences that will also tour to national and international museums.

Inaugural exhibitions include major works by Edgar Degas and Francisco Goya, celebrated Canadian photographers Yousuf Karsh and Edward Burtynsky internationally renowned Canadian artists Janet Cardiff and George Bures Miller.

The new AGA opens on January 31, 2010 with a two-day free public event. Timed tickets will be issued to accommodate the large numbers anticipated and to ensure quality visits. AGA Members will receive advance access to the limited timed-tickets.