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Public Art Collection Internal Loan Program

Public Art Collection Internal Loan Program

The Calgary Public Art Collection includes over a thousand portable artistic, cultural and historic artworks such as paintings, small sculptures, and textiles. Each piece in the collection has a unique history and a tells a story of our city’s history and culture during a moment in time. We balance displaying these artworks so that they are accessible to Calgarians and preserving them for future generations.

Where you can see the Collection


Artworks for the collection are displayed in publicly-accessible spaces such as the Municipal Building Atrium and throughout the Plus 15 system. They are also loaned out to educational institutions such as schools, universities and public libraries. Some of our artworks get loaned to local and national arts organizations for specific exhibits. A select number of artworks are permitted to be displayed in the Mayor’s Office, Councillor’s offices, and General Manager's offices as these spaces are frequently visited by public and City officials.

Artwork selection


Members of Council and General Managers may select up to three artworks for your space, depending on the constraints of your office area. We work with you to select available artwork from the collection that aligns with your interests and is appropriate for your office space.

We will consider risks such as:

  • What might happen if the artwork is placed in higher traffic areas
  • Light exposure that could cause the artwork to fade
  • Furniture placement and use of furniture within the space

Keeping artworks safe


We are responsible for preserving the artworks and protecting them from any possible damage and deterioration.

Please follow the preservation regulations below while hosting artwork in your space:

  • Do not handle, move, or remove the artwork yourself, even temporarily. Our staff are trained in handling fine art and will be happy to assist you. Please submit relocation or removal requests to publicart@calgary.ca.
  • Be extra cautious when eating or drinking near the artwork.
  • Turn lights off in the space when not in use to limit light exposure of the artwork. If the artwork receives direct sunlight, please consider closing your blinds when possible to limit light and UV exposure.
  • Be mindful of the art in your space to avoid knocks, bumps or impacts when passing.
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Enjoy the artwork! We hope you will be proud to showcase artists in the collection and delight in sharing their stories with interested visitors.

If you have any questions or requests, please contact publicart@calgary.ca.

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