AUArts has been shaping Alberta’s creative landscape for a century. 

From the Provincial Institute of Technology and Art (1926-1959), to Alberta College of Art (1960-1994), to Alberta College of Art and Design (1995-2019), to Alberta University of the Arts. AUArts is one of only three post-secondary institutions in Alberta to reach the 100-year milestone.

More than 14,000 people have attended this institution during our 100-year history. AUArts alumni are the artists, designers, craftspeople, entrepreneurs, and innovators who are leading creative culture in Alberta and around the world. 

We've been collecting stories of the people and the moments that shaped us over the last century. 

 

We have lots to celebrate!

Centennial exhibition series at Illingworth Kerr Gallery

This series honours our historical achievements, emphasizing AUArts’ position as a critical incubator of creativity and innovation.

Installation view of Knowledge Made Concrete: 100 Years of Teaching and Collecting, 17 Jan — 8 Mar 2025, Illingworth Kerr Gallery, AUArts, Calgary. Photo Credit: Katy Whitt.

Current Exhibition

Hearing Circles

An Alberta A(r)ttitude

Curated by Tak Pham

Jan 16 - Mar 14, 2026

Ways to get involved.

Share your story

Help us document some of the moments that made us. Your memories and experiences are a vital part of AUArts’ history. We want to hear from you!

Share here

Donate to Centennial Scholarships

Contribute to tuition-free scholarships and fund the education of the next generation of artists, craftspersons and designers.

Learn more & donate here

Stay connected

Subscribe to our monthly Abstract Newsletter to receive invitations to centennial events throughout 2026.

Sign up here

Telling our stories...

We have a rich and remarkable history, and you can explore the stories of the people and moments that have shaped AUArts over 100 years on our centennial timeline.

...and yours!

Submit your AUArts story
Architectural illustration of the Alberta College of Art and Design by Nelson Macdonald building, showing its brick exterior, stairways, and 1970s-era cars parked out front.

Centennial celebration event.

Black-and-white photo of a large audience seated in AUArts’ Main Mall (then ACA) during a formal event, with speakers on stage and people standing along the sides.

In October 2026, we’ll be inviting the AUArts community back to campus to celebrate with us. 

You won’t want to miss this one!

Stay tuned for more information and for tickets.