The Southern Alberta Art Gallery is marking its 50th anniversary during this year’s Art Auction.
The fundraiser will take place May 2 at the Lethbridge and District Exhibition.
Organizers said it is the first time the event has been held off-site, reflecting not only SAAG’s growth but also a new community partnership, according to the gallery’s communications co-ordinator.
“It’s a really special time for us,” Rogers said. “If we look back on the last five decades, art is really the heartbeat of Lethbridge. It challenges us to connect and creates a space for people to truly belong.”
The annual fundraiser will feature roughly 40 art pieces, many of which were donated by artists, including a piece from featured sculptor Catherine Ross, a longtime contributor to the gallery.
Rogers described Ross as a “natural fit” for this year’s spotlight, citing her longstanding relationship with the organization and visible presence in the community, including artwork displayed on the gallery building.
Proceeds from the event will go toward programming rather than infrastructure, despite a planned expansion of the gallery.
“Every dollar that we’re raising goes directly back into the people,” Rogers said. “It keeps our programming barrier-free and ensures we can pay our local artists fairly.”
The off-site venue also highlights a new partnership with Excite Lethbridge, which allows the gallery to bring art into a different community space.
Rogers said the partnership helps expand access and visibility.
“It gives us the opportunity to meet the community where they’re at.
“People attending events there will be able to see beautiful artwork, which enhances both the experience and recognition for local artists.”
Moving the gala to a larger venue is also expected to increase attendance compared with past years, when the event often sold out in the gallery’s smaller space.
Tickets for the gala are available until April 27 and are required for those who want to participate in the live auction. An online auction is already open to the public, allowing anyone to bid remotely.
