EXPLORE, an exhibition by Calgary artist Chris Cran, is the happy public celebration of a new relationship between the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies and the Royal Canadian Geographical Society (RCGS).

 

With the opening of the exhibition, we have signed a memorandum of understanding that reflects the many ways in which our two organizations overlap and serve Canadians.

 

The RCGS and the Whyte Museum share a commitment to help Canadians foster a greater understanding of Canada’s geography – its diverse human and physical landscapes – as well as the changes affecting its people and the environment.

 

There has never been a more important time to work together on this.

 

The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies is using its extraordinary collections of art, artifacts, its archives, and library to connect visitors more closely to nature. Every hiking pole, painting, warden map, Indigenous story, and ski photo speaks to the passion visitors to Banff have felt for the mountains for thousands of years. As a national treasure in a national park, the Whyte offers meaningful experiences that encourage visitors to explore the changing landscape with fresh eyes – and to take responsibility for it.

 

The RCGS is the most recognized voice for connecting Canadians with their geography – and Canadian are all about geography. The RCGS has supported expeditions, encouraged new research, recognized remarkable feats of exploration and compelling ideas, and shared its findings with Canada and the world. It is known for its acclaimed magazine, Canadian Geographic, and for its quiet encouragement of scholars, writers, filmmakers and artists such as Chris Cran.

 

We are delighted and excited about our new collaboration. We invite you to join us in the adventure and explorations ahead!