Watch the virtual celebration here.
Design
Selected through an international competition, Michael Maltzan Architecture‘s challenge was to increase public access to the WAG’s celebrated collection of contemporary Inuit art, while respecting the context and character of the Gallery’s iconic 1971 modernist building, designed by Gustavo da Roza. Maltzan was inspired by a trip to Nunavut where the team visited Inuit communities and artists’ studios. Working with associate Cibinel Architecture, Maltzan’s design echos the ephemeral qualities of the North. Qaumajuq’s undulating white stone façade, made of Bethel Granite, hovers above the ground as if floating over the glass-filled lobby. Its abstract quality recalls the scale and carved forms of the North as well as the artwork housed within its walls.
Nutaaq Tummaqtuyuq
“big steps forward” Inuvialuktun >>> Outdoor Plaza
Come relax at the new community plaza on St. Mary Ave. You can peek inside to the Visible Vault and other spaces of Qaumajuq, and enjoy the patio in the summer months. You’ll also come face-to-face with two new outdoor sculptures: Tuniigusiia/The Gift by Goota Ashoona, commissioned by the Manitoba Teachers’ Society; and Time to Play by Abraham Anghik Ruben, commissioned by Tannis M. Richardson.
Ilavut
“our relatives” in Inuktitut >>> Entrance Hall
The first thing you’ll see, even before you enter Qaumajuq, is a three-story glass vault filled with thousands of carvings from the world’s largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art. The vault’s curved walls allow you to walk around the collection and also be immersed in it. You’ll see curators, conservators, and other Gallery staff working within the vault. It’s like a town square—you come from the outdoor plaza into the entrance hall with art, a main floor shop and café, and leading you to breathtaking new gallery and learning spaces.
New Era of Accessibility
Qaumajuq’s new main entrance isn’t the only way the Gallery is opening up, the entire main floor is FREE for visitors. Admission to WAG-Qaumajuq is also FREE for all Indigenous Peoples.
Ilipvik
“a place where you can go to learn” in Inuttitut >>> The Learning Steps
The Learning Steps is a 90-seat theatre where you can take in talks, performances, films, and more. It’s also a smart classroom expanding our distance learning programs, connecting classrooms, artists, elders, and educators locally, from North to South and worldwide. A massive curtain printed with an artwork by Elisapee Ishulutaq, titled Yesterday and Today, will envelop you during screenings and private events.
Niizhwaaso
“seven” in Ojibway, in honour of the Indigenous group of seven >>> Collaborative Learning Centre
Make your way up to the second floor and discover the reading room with access to the Clara Lander Library which includes artist files, periodicals, and archives totalling over 24,000 volumes. Learn more about the space here. This research area expands on the Clara Lander Library, established in 1971.
The non-circulating collections support research activities of WAG staff and are also available to the academic community and general public. It overlooks the Learning Steps and features an outdoor terrace where you can not only hang out, but where you’ll discover artist demonstrations, performances, and more. Stay tuned!
Three New Gallery Spaces
- PIMÂTISIWIN “life and the act of living, to be alive” in Cree/Ojibway >>> Focus Gallery
- GIIZHIG / KISIK “sky, heaven, day” in Cree/Michif/Ojibway >>> Fourth Floor Gallery
- QILAK “sky” in Inuktitut >>> Main Inuit Gallery
On the third level, you will enter an intimate space called Pimâtisiwin that leads into Qilak, an 8,000-square-foot gallery dedicated to the display of Inuit art. Enormous skylights in the ceiling bring an amazing quality of light, illuminating the art and undulating walls. Keep ascending skyward to Giizhig, overlooking the main gallery.
WAG Studio
Art-making has moved up to the rooftop level of WAG-Qaumajuq! No matter your age or skill level, this new space is sure to inspire you. Join artist instructors and channel your creativity in five indoor classrooms, and two outdoor studios. From painting and pottery to carving and new media, choose from five and 10-week classes, or casual, one-night workshops (including private virtual sessions for you and your family and friends!).
Events
Drop-in Tours
April 12, 2026
Uncover the stories behind the art and artists with a 45-60-minute guided tour by our experienced Gallery Guides on select afternoons.
Cannes Lions
International Festival of Creativity
Apr 4 & 10, May 7
Catch the screenings of the 2025 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity – The World’s Best Ads! The works will screen at WAG-Qaumajuq with select dates December through March.
Drawing & Painting 2
Ages 6-8
Apr 11 Jun 20 '26
This course gives an introduction to basic techniques and fundamental concepts that artists use to create successful drawings and paintings.
WAG Wednesday Nights
Film Screening & Live Music
Wednesday, Apr 15 '26
Enjoy a special screening of Guy Maddin’s My Winnipeg, and live music with Kolade Jesugbemi.
Spring Fling
Art in Bloom Preview Party
Thursday, Apr 16 '26
Join us for this year’s Art in Bloom Preview Party, and be the first to experience the lush floral exhibit created by Manitoba’s creative community!
Art in Bloom
A festival of art and flowers
Apr 17 Apr 19 '26
Every second year, the galleries blossom with a feast for the senses. Join us for this year’s Art in Bloom weekend.
WAG Wednesday Nights
EARTH NIGHT @ WAG
Wednesday, Apr 22 '26
Celebrate Earth Day with an immersive evening of art, reflection, and connection with Lourdes Still and Rebecca McIvor.
SOLD OUT: Tumblers
ClayMaker Workshop
Sunday, Apr 26 '26
Design and build your new favourite 16oz to-go cup!
WAG Wednesday Nights
Kelly Bado live!
Wednesday, Apr 29 '26
An evening of soulful music in Main Hall.
Graphic Novel 3 or 4
Ages 9-11 and 12-15
Multiple Dates/Ages Available
Love reading comics and drawing? This graphic novel class allows students to explore the art of storytelling through illustration.
Canada Life
Free Sundays@WAG
Sunday, May 10 '26
Join us on the second Sunday of May for free admission to WAG-Qaumajuq and more family fun, thanks to Canada Life!
Canada Life
Free Sundays@WAG
Sunday, Jun 14 '26
Join us on the second Sunday of June for free admission to WAG-Qaumajuq and more family fun, thanks to Canada Life!
Canada Life
Free Sundays@WAG
Sunday, Jul 12 '26
Join us on the second Sunday of June for free admission to WAG-Qaumajuq and more family fun, thanks to Canada Life!
Canada Life
Free Sundays@WAG
Sunday, Aug 9 '26
Join us on the second Sunday of August for free admission to WAG-Qaumajuq and more family fun, thanks to Canada Life!
Canada Life
Free Sundays@WAG
Sunday, Sep 13 '26
Join us on the second Sunday of September for free admission to WAG-Qaumajuq and more family fun, thanks to Canada Life!
Canada Life
Free Sundays@WAG
Sunday, Oct 11 '26
Join us on the second Sunday of October for free admission to WAG-Qaumajuq and more family fun, thanks to Canada Life!
Gallery Ball 2026
Saturday, Oct 17 '26
Gallery Ball is our signature annual fundraiser and one of Winnipeg’s most celebrated benefit events.
Canada Life
Free Sundays@WAG
Sunday, Nov 8 '26
Join us on the second Sunday of November for free admission to WAG-Qaumajuq and more family fun, thanks to Canada Life!
Canada Life
Free Sundays@WAG
Sunday, Dec 13 '26
Join us on the second Sunday of December for free admission to WAG-Qaumajuq and more family fun, thanks to Canada Life!
SOLD OUT: Mixed Media 2
Ages 6-8
Apr 11 Jun 20 '26
Students will try out a variety of media that may include drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, and printmaking.
SOLD OUT: Animation 3.5
Ages 9-14
Apr 12 Jun 21 '26
This course provides a beginner’s understanding of animation process and techniques.
Monday Watercolour Painting
Adult
Apr 13 Jun 22 '26
Learn the basic techniques of watercolour painting, the use and care of paints and brushes, the elements and principals of design, and colour theory.
Acrylic Painting
Adult
Apr 15 Jun 17 '26
Discover the art of acrylic painting.
Digital Drawing
Adult
Apr 16 Jun 18 '26
Transform your drawings into digital works of art! Bring your own tablet, or use the WAG’s in our new Digital Media Lab!
Floral Interpretation of Art
Art in Bloom Workshop
April 17
In this workshop, botanical artist Julie Myers will lead you through a captivating floral arranging demonstration, providing expert guidance and insights into various flower types to spark inspiration and guide your creative process.
Florist Secrets Workshop
Art in Bloom Workshop
April 18
This class is all about tips, tricks, and unique design skills that will instantly level up your arrangements — from how to build shape and movement, to getting your flowers to sit properly, stay fresh longer, and look professionally finished.
Ikebana
Art in Bloom Workshop
April 18
Delve into the intricate world of Ikebana, learning the principles of balance and the art of creating a captivating visual poetry with flowers.
Kids Arrangements
Six and up
Sunday, April 19
Come join us for a fun and creative Kids Floral Workshop designed for children ages six and up!
Woodland/Botanical Couture
Art in Bloom Workshop
April 19
This class is inspired by a natural, garden-driven design style that feels organic, editorial, and intentionally undone—where every stem has movement, texture, and purpose.
Drawing Basics
Adult
Multiple Dates Available
For students with little or no drawing experience, this introduction to the fundamental techniques and concepts of drawing will sharpen observational skills and build confidence.
SOLD OUT: Clayworks 3 or 4
Ages 9-11 and 12-15
Multiple Dates/Ages Available
Students will work on a series of functional and sculptural projects, using a variety of techniques to develop clay hand-building skills.
Pottery
Adult
Multiple Dates Available
Discover hand building, which includes slab building, slump molded forms, and throwing on the potter’s wheel.
Digital Drawing 3 or 4
Ages 9-11 and 12-15
Multiple Dates/Ages Available
Students will learn to translate the principles of traditional drawing and painting into the language of digital media using an iPad with Apple Pencil and the Procreate app.
Summer Camp: Clay, Sculpture, & Pottery
Ages 7–11
Jul 6 Jul 17 '26
This hands-on camp is perfect for kids interested in exploring the world of clay. Stay tuned for more details.
Summer Camp: Adventures in Painting
Ages 7–11
Jul 20 Jul 31 '26
Unleash your child’s creativity at Adventures in Painting, Register now.
Summer Camp: Cardboard Sculpture Creations
Ages 7–11
Aug 4 Aug 14 '26
In this hands-on, imagination-fueled camp, young artists will transform ordinary cardboard into extraordinary creations.
Summer Camp: Clay, Sculpture, & Pottery
Ages 7–11
Aug 17 Aug 28 '26
This hands-on camp is perfect for kids interested in exploring the world of clay. Stay tuned for more details.
Travel Tour
Sri Lanka
Sep 27 Oct 12 '26
Join the Associates of the WAG on a Travel Tour to Sri Lanka!
SOLD OUT: Figurative Painting (Intermediate, Oil)
Adult
Apr 15 Jun 17 '26
This class is designed for individuals who have a basic drawing and painting skill level and wish to learn the art of figurative painting using oil paints.
SOLD OUT: Oil Painting
Adult
Apr 16 Jun 18 '26
Discover the art of oil painting.
SOLD OUT: Tumblers
ClayMaker Workshop
Saturday, Apr 25 '26
Design and build your new favourite 16oz to-go cup!
We hope you enjoy your visit to WAG-Qaumajuq! See our tips for visiting.
