We have been very busy during the quiet days, weeks, and months of the COVID-19 pandemic! This long stretch of time being closed to the public has given us an opportunity to make many improvements in our facility and to bring new energy to our guest experience. Meanwhile, we’ve made extensive progress in digitizing our archival material, cataloging heritage homes, and expanding our digital options. It’s been a productive time.
There is much to see and explore this summer at the Whyte and we are so excited to welcome you back to the museum in a safe way.
Here are 8 new things that’ll deepen your connection to Banff:
1. Mansions to Mountains: In Conversation with Catharine Whyte Exhibit: Featuring videos, objects, in the art gallery, we’re exploring the extraordinary life of our founder from a fresh perspective. More information here.
2. Walking Tour App: The Whyte Museum Walks app is a brand-new way to explore the characters, homes, buildings, and stories from our collection while you stroll the scenic streets and trails of Banff. It’s simple, safe and so much fun to wander through town following the self-guided route and markers set out in the app. Download from the Apple App or Google Play Store.
3. Grounds of inspiration: Our extensive property on the banks of the Bow River has been a gathering place for centuries. Take some time to relax in our grounds. Recently, we’ve re-installed a mural of Sitting Wind and the Cultural Trade Route that celebrates Indigenous culture and relationships in the Bow Valley and Banff. You can also expect to see Indigenous painters at work at our new picnic tables and community members and visitors both finding a shady place to relax in the heart of our community.
4. Art and Geology Tour: Join art curator, Lisa Christensen and geologist, Dave Christensen in a guided walk that explores the places depicted in some of Canada’s finest art and discover the landscapes that inspired them. Expect lively discussions spanning the history of time up to today. Tours start July 8. Sign up here.
5. Gallery Updates: Renovations have been completed in the Heritage Gallery – which houses the Gateway to the Rockies exhibition. As well, the Founders Gallery, located downstairs, will once again be open to the public.
6. New Acquisitions: We’ve put many of these recent acquisitions from our collections on display. This includes some stunning artifacts, paintings, drawings, and sculpture from a variety of sources. We’re grateful and joyful to be sharing these exceptional treasures with you in the Art and Heritage collection.
7. Reading Room and Recognizing Relations: Through our on-going project Recognizing Relations, we’re updating descriptions, restoring names, and removing inappropriate language from our collection. Many of our Indigenous neighbours have participated by helping identify the individuals and families in our archives. Spend some time in a comfortable chair in our Reading Room to hear these stories, explore the photographs, and learn the names.
8. The Shop: The closure has led to a big reinvigoration at the Museum’s Shop. We have a strong new focus on mountain culture books, and our shelves are stocked with the most compelling, thoughtful, and award-winning books on mountain life of all kinds. Looking for a fresh perspective on contemporary issues? An imaginative story centred on life in the wilderness? Come see all that’s new at the Shop!
We can’t wait to see you back at the Whyte this summer. Keep an eye on our social channels for more information on exciting events and more opportunities to learn, discover, enjoy, and explore the Canadian Rockies with us.
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