Simon Fraser University is set to open the Marianne and Edward Gibson Art Museum on September 20, marking a significant milestone as the institution's first purpose-built art museum. The impressive 12,100-square-foot facility will house SFU's extensive art collections under one roof, creating a new cultural landmark on the Burnaby Mountain campus.
Designed through a collaboration between Hariri Pontarini Architects and Iredale Architecture, the museum building showcases innovative architectural features that emphasize natural light and frame stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The structure incorporates locally sourced mass timber beams and has achieved LEED Gold certification, demonstrating the university's commitment to sustainable construction practices.
Accessibility stands as a key design principle for the Gibson Art Museum, with entrances strategically positioned on both the campus side and the SFU Transit Exchange. This dual-access approach ensures the museum can serve both the university community and the general public effectively. The building also features flexible gathering spaces that can accommodate various types of events and exhibitions.
The museum's inaugural exhibition, titled "Edge Effects," draws its name from an ecological concept that describes the unique richness occurring where two different environments intersect. For the Gibson Art Museum, this "edge" represents the convergence point where academic scholarship meets public engagement, fostering meaningful exchanges between different disciplines, historical perspectives, and artistic materials.
"Edge Effects" will showcase works by 15 Canadian artists, with 10 specially commissioned pieces created specifically for this opening exhibition. Notable highlights include Liz Magor's "Blue Students/Alumnos en azul," a powerful work originally installed on both sides of the San Diego and Tijuana border, and Cindy Mochizuki's "Arboreal Time," an enchanting installation featuring more than 40 porcelain kodama (Japanese tree spirits) displayed above the museum's central hearth.
The exhibition will also draw extensively from SFU's remarkable collection of over 5,900 artworks that document the rich social and artistic history of Canada's West Coast. This comprehensive collection provides visitors with deep insights into the region's cultural development and artistic evolution over time.
Opening weekend festivities will offer diverse programming for all ages and interests. Activities will include welcoming remarks from university officials, a live performance by Lucien Durey, engaging children's art activities, and an artist talk featuring Cruz, Farooq, and Stanley. These events are designed to introduce the community to the museum's mission and create an inclusive atmosphere for all visitors.
Looking ahead, the Gibson Art Museum has planned an exciting roster of programming for the months following its opening. Future events will include hands-on weaving workshops, dynamic dance and sound performances, and a special clay kodama-making session led by artist Cindy Mochizuki. These diverse offerings reflect the museum's commitment to providing interactive and educational experiences that complement its exhibition programming.
The Marianne and Edward Gibson Art Museum is located at 8888 University Drive on the SFU campus in Burnaby, British Columbia. The museum's strategic location and thoughtful design make it easily accessible to both university students and faculty as well as members of the broader Vancouver metropolitan community, positioning it to become a significant cultural destination in the region.
