The Winnipeg Art Gallery Foundation Inc.

The Winnipeg Art Gallery Foundation Inc. (Business Registration Number: 890311376RR0001) is a Canadian nonprofit organization established to support the Winnipeg Art Gallery (WAG), one of Canada's prominent art institutions. The Foundation plays a crucial role in fundraising, expanding the Gallery's collections, sponsoring exhibitions, and supporting capital projects.

History and Purpose

The Foundation's origins date back to a time when it initially hesitated to support cultural organizations. In 1940, when the Winnipeg Art Gallery requested the Foundation to take out a Patron’s Membership, the request was denied to avoid setting a precedent for supporting other cultural entities. However, by 1961, the Foundation reversed its position and began supporting cultural institutions, including the Winnipeg Art Gallery, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, and the Manitoba Theatre Centre.

Since then, the Foundation has significantly contributed to the arts and cultural heritage of Winnipeg and Manitoba. It has supported grassroots cultural organizations and various ethnic and cultural communities, reflecting the region's diverse population. Notable contributions include grants to the Winnipeg Chinese Cultural and Community Centre in 1986, the Rusalka Ukrainian Dance Ensemble in 1994, and the Philippine-Canadian Centre of Manitoba in 2001.

Contributions to the Winnipeg Art Gallery

The WAG Foundation has contributed nearly $2 million to the Gallery, helping to expand its permanent collection, sponsor exhibitions, and fund capital projects aimed at enhancing the Gallery’s infrastructure and visitor experience. These efforts have directly bolstered the Winnipeg Art Gallery's reputation as a leading Canadian art institution.

Relationship with the Winnipeg Art Gallery

The Winnipeg Art Gallery, established in 1912 and formally incorporated in 1963, is renowned for its extensive and diverse collections, including the largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art in the world. The Foundation’s support has been instrumental in securing and growing these collections, enabling the Gallery to flourish both regionally and nationally.

The Foundation continues to be a vital partner to the Winnipeg Art Gallery, ensuring the institution maintains its role as a cultural beacon preserving and celebrating the arts and heritage of Winnipeg and Canada at large.

This summary encapsulates the history, role, and impact of The Winnipeg Art Gallery Foundation Inc. based on available records, illustrating its significant philanthropic involvement with the Winnipeg Art Gallery and broader cultural community.