Remai Modern

Imagine a monumental building whose design is inspired by the vast prairies: this is Remai Modern, a striking contemporary art museum that has become a new landmark for the city of Saskatoon. Located on the scenic banks of the South Saskatchewan River, it is rightfully considered one of the most significant cultural sites Canada has to offer art enthusiasts.

The museum's architecture deserves special mention. Designed by the renowned Bruce Kuwabara, the building stands out with its dramatic facade of glass and copper mesh. Inside, more than 11,000 square meters of space house 11 exhibition galleries, a state-of-the-art theatre, and educational studios. It is the first institution in the country originally designed and positioned exclusively as a center for contemporary art.

The museum does more than just display work; it creates a space for dialogue. Here, you can see world-class masterpieces, including a unique collection of Picasso linocuts, as well as discover the work of local artists. Thanks to its openness and innovative approach, Remai Modern has become a magnet for both experts and casual tourists seeking inspiration.

To plan your visit to Remai Modern, it's a good idea to save the museum's contact information in advance. The administration is always ready to answer questions about current exhibitions or special events.

The main reason people visit Remai Modern is to immerse themselves in the world of current artistic ideas across 11 spacious galleries. Every exhibition here is meticulously planned, allowing visitors to interact with art objects and reflect on contemporary cultural challenges. Be sure to visit the atrium: its glass walls, spanning four floors, offer breathtaking panoramic views of the river.

The museum offers much more than just viewing art. You can catch a film screening or a lecture in the cozy 150-seat theatre, while families with children can enjoy dedicated play areas and interactive tech-based displays. A unique feature of Remai Modern is that admission to the first-floor spaces is free, making art as accessible as possible to every passerby.

After a full tour of the galleries, it's worth stopping by the local restaurant to discuss your impressions over lunch. The museum's dynamic programming ensures that even on a return visit, you’ll find something new—from temporary installations to vibrant cultural performances.

The Remai Modern building is located at 102 Spadina Crescent E, in the heart of the River Landing district. As this is the central business district, the museum is highly accessible for all visitors to the city.

If you prefer public transport, the museum is easily reached by Saskatoon's city bus network, with regular routes running through the downtown core. For those taking a taxi or driving, it is just a few minutes away from most central hotels. The museum's strategic position on the riverbank makes it a prominent landmark that is hard to miss.

For those who enjoy walking, the journey to the museum can be a highlight in itself. A stroll along the South Saskatchewan River waterfront offers scenic views and leads you directly to the building's striking modern facade.

The history of this cultural center began long before the construction of its current home. The museum's predecessor was the Mendel Art Gallery, which opened in 1964. It quickly gained status as an important national institution, but over time, the old premises could no longer accommodate the growing collections and the increasing number of visitors.

The decision to create an entirely new space was made in 2009. While a renovation of the old gallery was initially discussed, the city council ultimately chose an ambitious project in the River Landing area. Philanthropist Ellen Remai played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life; her foundation donated an impressive $30 million CAD toward the museum's construction and development.

Construction began in 2013 under the direction of renowned architect Bruce Kuwabara. The official opening of Remai Modern took place on October 21, 2017, marking a new chapter in the region's cultural life. Since then, the museum has firmly established itself as one of the country's premier art venues.

To fully enjoy the exhibitions and the architecture, most visitors require between 2 to 4 hours. This provides enough time to leisurely browse the main galleries and spend a moment in the atrium overlooking the river.

If you are a true contemporary art enthusiast and plan to study each of the 11 exhibitions in detail, attend a screening in the museum's theatre, or have lunch at the restaurant, you should set aside about 5 hours. The museum encourages thoughtful contemplation, so we recommend not rushing your visit.

When planning your visit to Remai Modern, please note that the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. For the rest of the week, the cultural center is open to all visitors, with extended evening hours on Thursdays and Fridays.

Current museum schedule:

• Monday and Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Thursday and Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

A visit to the museum can easily be combined with a stroll through the neighborhood, as the River Landing area is packed with interesting locations. Its proximity to the river and well-appointed park zones make this part of the city perfect for a full day of exploration.

Exploring the nearby attractions will help you get a better feel for Saskatoon's atmosphere, as you transition from contemporary art to historical monuments or outdoor recreation areas.