The impressive Remai Modern, Saskatchewan and Canada’s new museum of modern art, opened on October 21 in Saskatoon. There are at least 8,000 reasons to visit, based on the sheer number of artworks in the museum’s vault. Among the treasures is the world’s largest collection of Picasso linocut prints and working proofs – 406 works, in total. Add to that 23 ceramics by the Spanish master and it is fair to say that Picasso is at home on the Prairies.

Naturally, you cannot see all of the works at once. That would be sensory overload. Healthy consumption, whether it be food, art or other pleasures, means moderate portions and savouring each bite. Consider the inaugural exhibition, Field Guide, a rich appetizer, whetting your taste for all that is ahead at Remai Modern, one of the most significant new art museum/tourism attractions in North America. Field Guide, with its 300 works by nearly 80 artists, animates the entire 130,000-sq. ft., four-storey museum with a “spirit of active engagement, curiosity and disruption.” Here are just two of the features:

Faces of Picasso, showing until February 25, 2018

Determined by the river, showing until January 7, 2018

Quick facts about Remai Modern:

• The museum has 11 exhibition galleries, a 150-seat theatre, a learning studio and variety of multi-use spaces.
• Canadian architect Bruce Kuwabara of KPMB created the award-winning design, in the Prairie Modern style.
• A beautiful atrium and outdoor terraces offer spectacular views of the South Saskatchewan River, Saskatoon cityscape and Saskatchewan’s “living skies.”
• Exhibitions on the ground floor are free to the public. A $12 admission ($10 if you are a student or senior) gets you into galleries on the other levels. A membership (starting at $45) provides free admission to exhibitions and additional benefits year-round.
• Check out the food! The museum’s 68-seat restaurant Shift (operated by Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality) offers lunch, dinner and weekend brunch.

Photos by Adrien Williams