Vancouver's Public Art Museum

Vancouver Biennale
(pronounced: ˌbē-enˈälā)

Over the years, you might have noticed some interesting things pop up in your neighborhood, such as a totem pole of Trans Ams, giant coloured beans, or even cement silos painted to look like cartoon characters. These works of art, are all thanks to the hard working folks at The Vancouver Biennale, a non-profit charitable organization that exhibits great art in public spaces, creating a catalyst for learning, community engagement and social action. 

"Trans Am Totem"
by 
Marcus Bowcott

Since it's inception, The Vancouver Biennale has worked with hundred's of local and international artists and sculptors. Their work can be seen scattered all across the city. These art installments  have brightened up what is a normally a very dull and drab Vancouver. 

"Giants" 
by 
Brazilian Street Artists OsGemeos

Founded by Barrie Mowatt, one of Vancouver's award winning super entreprenuers and philanthropists, is the visionary behind this project. Barrie has always played a hand in the development of Vancouver's art scene, starting with one of the most established fine art galleries in the city, the former Buschlen-Mowatt Gallery.

Now, Barrie combines his passion for art, education and community service in exhibitions that bring great art to public spaces, where people live, work, play and transit, free to all enjoy and be inspired by. He works along side an amazing list of curators and has substantial support from the community. 

"A-maze-ing Laughter"
by
by Yue Minjun
 Is the most beloved sculpture of the 2009-2011 Vancouver Biennale exhibition.

The 3rd Vancouver Biennale exhibition began in  Spring 2014 and they are now expanding to new cities and broadening their program to include a wider range of artistic disciplines, and inviting a staggering mix of famous and emerging artists from around the world to participate in the two-year celebration of  contemporary art.

The curatorial theme of the exhibition is Open Borders/ Crossroads Vancouver. Artists from all nations, cultural backgrounds, political histories and artistic disciplines will gather to celebrate art in public space.

To learn more about Vancouver Biennale and art that will be popping up in a neighborhood near you visit them here.
     www.vancouverbiennale.com