LOOK26 Gala: Off The Path Raises $1.2M in support of Contemporary Calgary

[May 4, 2026, Calgary] Contemporary Calgary is proud to share the success of the LOOK26 Gala: OffThe Path, presented by MAWER. On Saturday May 2nd, the space was transformed to welcome 1200 guests, raising $1.2M in support of the gallery’s ambitious exhibitions and public programs.

Brought to life by local artist duo and LOOK26 Gala Curators DaveandJenn, the evening moved from an intimate VIP Dinner—sponsored by Holt Renfrew with a dining experience beautifully delivered by Concorde Entertainment Group—into a high-energy celebration. Following the dinner, the gallery transformed for the Cabaret and Ryan Green After Party, featuring a heavy-hitting lineup sponsored by Cowboys Music Festival. The night included a showstopping performance by Juno Award-nominated electronic musician TR/ST, alongside Hermitess, Dan Solo, DJ Hannah, and a set by iconic French electronic musician and producer The Hacker.

At the heart of the evening was the LOOK26 Art Auction, supported by Heather Edwards, which delivered exceptional results with 100% of works sold across both live and silent auctions totalling $583,356. The sale featured 88 works (27 live, 61 silent), with three works in the silent auction by artists Kablusiak, John Will and David Thauberger, selling for twice their fair market value. The Auction results reflected strong demand from collectors for Canadian and International art.

The live auction was led by acclaimed auctioneer Stephen Ranger, who drove the dynamic and highly engaged sale. On average the live auction works sold for over 100% of their fair market value across 27 lots, underscoring the quality of the works presented in the auction this year. A standout moment included the sale of Pascale Ouellet’s MISSING NOAH 33 (2026), which realized over 200% of its estimated value. Another notable work Birch Woods (c.1912–1915) by Group of Seven member L. L. FitzGerald, generously donated by board member Dr. John Lacey, CM, sold for 125% of its fair market value—marking the third major historical work he has contributed to the LOOK Art Auction.

“Every year, the LOOK Gala reminds us what's possible when a community rallies around art. The generosity from sponsors, artists, gallerists and collectors carries far beyond one evening. It's what allows us to continue bringing world-class programming to Calgary,” said David Leinster, CEO of Contemporary Calgary.

Kelly Streit, Board of Directors Co-Chair expands, “I've attended galas around the world, and every year the LOOK Gala holds its own against any of them. The curation, the talent, the crowd—it’s an evening of pure brilliance that provides the vital funds needed to bring extraordinary art to our city. I couldn't be more proud to be a part of it.”

Since its inception in 2014, when the gallery first hosted LOOK in the then-vacant Centennial Planetarium, the gala has evolved into a defining moment in Calgary’s cultural calendar. Today, LOOK remains a vital force in sustaining Contemporary Calgary’s mission, energizing efforts to provide the community with meaningful access to contemporary art and ideas.

For additional information or to coordinate interviews, please contact:
Jason Krell, Public Relations Contact for Contemporary Calgary
jk@jasonkrell.ca | 403.862.7380