SFU’s Bold New Gallery Breaks Every Museum Rule (And That’s the Point)

SFU gallery director Kimberly Phillips is ushering in a bold new era with the Marianne and Edward Gibson Art Museum—officially consolidating their three existing spaces into one ambitious, accessible home for art that blurs boundaries.

“We designed from the inside out,” says Phillips of the new gallery, which opens September 20. Located right off the main Burnaby campus bus loop, the single-level, 12,000-square-foot building features a central “hearth” lounge (complete with electric fireplace and horseshoe couch) that doubles as gallery and gathering space—like it’s your most cultured friend’s living room, but with art.

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Phillips emphasizes that this museum isn’t your typical white cube. With two-foot-deep window seats, flexible “edge spaces” and an art studio that flows into an outdoor courtyard, the design invites curiosity and interaction. “Accessible, porous spaces encourage people to spend different kinds of time,” she says, noting that the gallery is built for everyone—students, librarians, parents, faculty, young children, grandparents.

The inaugural show embraces this vibe. Phillips and her team commissioned 12 artists to participate in Edge Effects, exploring questions of boundaries and porosity that are geographic, cultural and ecological. Interactive exhibits include a community sound project by Burnaby elementary students and a commissioned, semi-permanent hearthpiece by Cindy Mochizuki.

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The gallery promises rolling three-season programming: think kid-friendly maker labs, “drink and draw” date nights, screenings, performances, lectures—and yes, an artist-programmed snack kiosk (and gift shop, of course). It’s open Tuesday to Sunday, ideal for planned weekend pilgrimages…or a convenient stop on your epic hill hike. 8888 University Drive, gibson.sfu.ca