Founded in May 2012, Esker Foundation owes its vision to its founders, Calgary-based collectors & philanthropists, Jim and Susan Hill, who wanted to create an accessible and welcoming space for people to experience contemporary art exhibitions and programming. An important part of this vision is to ensure that barriers to access are as low as possible. To that end, Esker is proud to offer free admission, programs, and parking to all visitors.

Through exhibitions, public programs, publishing, and commissioning activities, the Foundation supports artists and audiences through a variety of learning, connecting, and collaborative models. Exhibitions, that change three times a year, reflect on current developments in local, regional, and international culture; creates opportunities for public dialogue; and supports the production of groundbreaking new work, ideas, and research.   

Each season of exhibitions is strengthened by a series of programs for families and children, youth, and adults. Esker Foundation understands the value of creating accessible, forward thinking, and highly engaging Public Programs as a way to gather in community, break down barriers to contemporary art practices, and support alternative methods of learning and knowing. Generally working with existing community groups, local or regional artists and makers, and exhibiting artists, Esker’s engagement opportunities activate our exhibitions, and aim to make them more accessible and relevant.