A major renovation and expansion will transform the Southern Alberta Art Gallery Maansiksikaitsitapiitsinikssin (SAAG) in downtown Lethbridge.

The $7.7-million project will renovate existing interior spaces and add new indoor and outdoor amenities. The City of Lethbridge says the work will improve accessibility, expand programming space, and strengthen connections between the gallery, Galt Gardens, and Festival Square.

The expansion and renovation were designed by DIALOG. Robert Claiborne, a partner at the firm, said the design responds to the site’s history and existing buildings. “Our work here is a conversation with the histories and memories of this place,” he said.

The project will add a new park-side entrance and patio facing Galt Gardens. It will also create the Listening Garden, an outdoor gathering space designed for relaxation, reflection, and public art.

Inside, the renovation will upgrade the Lower Gallery to Class A gallery standards. The project will also create a mixed-use workshop for exhibition construction, programming, and events.

A new food services area will include a catering kitchen and space for a third-party-operated café. The additions will support the gallery’s operations and long-term sustainability.

Accessibility upgrades

Accessibility forms another key part of the project. The building will gain additional entrances, while the lower level in the former library building will become barrier-free.

Funding includes $500,000 from the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund, $5.545 million through Alberta’s Municipal Sustainability Initiative, and $1 million from the Community Facility Enhancement Program. Travel Alberta is also supporting the project through its Tourism Investment Program.

The city says local taxpayers will cover slightly more than six per cent of the total project cost.

During construction, SAAG will operate from three temporary locations across Lethbridge, including SAAG Acadia, SAAG Express, and SAAG x Excite.

SAAG plans to reopen its modernized building to the public in spring 2028.