
Casa
Casa Lethbridge is an art gallery, maker space, and performance venue. Serving a multi-generational community, the centre welcomes every artistic skill set, hoping to foster an interest in all types of disciplines of the arts. This unique new facility is all about experimentation, learning, and growing, and a visit is a fantastic way to learn more about arts and culture in Lethbridge.
History
Opened in May 2013, Casa Lethbridge is managed by the Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge on behalf of the City of Lethbridge. Designing the building was a collaborative process between Pendergast Nyhoff Collaborative Architecture and the local architectural firm of Ferrari Westwood Babits; the result is a highly functional, visually stunning building that spans 42,000 square feet. Built with the goal of being a home for the arts where all are welcome, Casa Lethbridge sets a new standard for interdisciplinary arts centres across Canada.
Getting There
Casa Lethbridge is located at 230 8 St S in downtown Lethbridge, half a block from Galt Gardens. While there is no official visitor parking, there is plenty of paid street parking nearby. There are also numerous bus stops in the area.
When to Go
Casa is open daily but is usually closed on statutory holidays such as Christmas Day; always call ahead to check opening hours if you’re planning to visit on a holiday. Reception is open from Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The building itself is open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
What’s There
The interesting thing about Casa Lethbridge is that, as a multidisciplinary arts centre, there’s a unique balance between those who are there to view and observe art and those who are there to create. With that in mind, you’ll find numerous workshops and studios throughout the space, including music, dance, textile, weaving, printmaking, and 3D studios as well as a woodshop area, gas kiln room, wheel room, and more. There are also multiple classrooms and community rooms for events. The galleries showcase the current art on display, and you’ll find some interesting pieces in the outdoor yard and upper patio as well. Keep an eye out for the public art to be found throughout the building!
Things to Do
There is always something exciting happening at Casa Lethbridge! Visit the Gallery at Casa for rotating exhibits that feature fine art and craft from Southern Alberta; you’ll find more art around the building in the Program Space, Platform Gallery, Saokitapi Gallery, and Auxiliary Spaces. The Saokitapi Gallery is a space dedicated to displaying contemporary Indigenous art, particularly with a focus on Blackfoot and Métis artists from the area. All galleries at Casa Lethbridge are always free to visit.
But just seeing art is only half the draw of Casa Lethbridge. Getting involved in your own artistic endeavours is the other half, as there’s an incredible array of classes and workshops for all ages to try! Whether it's dabbling in the art of pottery, trying your hand at textile arts, diving into woodworking, or unleashing your inner artist through drawing and painting, there's something for everyone to discover at Casa. You can also attend numerous events throughout the year, including markets, family days, film screenings, plays, concerts, artist talks, and more.
Contact
Website: https://casalethbridge.ca/
Email: casa@artslethbridge.org
Phone: (403) 327-2272