Speculative Fictions

Until October 1, 2026

TREX Exhibit

We are thrilled to announce our current TREX exhibit, Speculative Fictions at the Art

Hub this September.

The exhibition Speculative Fictions draws upon themes present in the literary genre of

the same name, where artworks prompt viewers to consider the transformative potential

of wonder, awe, and mystery as we envision our collective futures.

EXHIBITION STATEMENT In today’s contemporary society where divisions often seem

to overshadow community connections and differences are commonly perceived as

threats rather than opportunities for compassionate growth, the power of imaginative

storytelling emerges as a beacon of hope.

The exhibition Speculative Fictions draws upon themes present in the literary genre of

the same name, where artworks prompt viewers to consider the transformative potential

of wonder, awe, and mystery as we envision our collective futures. Viewers are invited

to embark on a journey into the realm of imagination where limitations on what is

possible dissolve, and multiple portals open into the speculative edges of our shared

consciousness. If we approach each visual composition with curiosity, we are offered

glimpses into alternate realities, technological abstractions, and primordial possibilities –

prompting us to ask ourselves, “Where have we begun?” and, “Where are we going?”

Speculative Fictions features a curated selection of nineteen artworks from the Alberta

Foundation for the Arts provincial collection, each encouraging the kind of regenerative

curiosity needed in today’s uncertain times. Audiences are invited to imagine each

artist’s vision and the possible stories behind mysterious landscapes, abstract forms,

and playful compositions – many of which carry aesthetic qualities prevalent in visual

representations of popular science fiction and fantasy worlds.

Artists include Ernesto Bonato, Janet Cardiff, Wendy Ehlers, Nathan Grimson, Liz

Ingram, David Janzen, Rodney Konopaki, Calvin Kruk, Amy Loewan, James McDougall,

Leanne Olson, Jacques Rioux, Leonard Simpson, and Jim Westergard. – Ashley

Slemming, Curator

This exhibit is possible thanks to the Alberta Foundation for the Arts. Since 1980, the

Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA) has supported a provincial travelling exhibition

program. The TREX program strives to ensure every Albertan is provided with an

opportunity to enjoy fully developed exhibitions in schools, libraries, healthcare centres,

and smaller rural institutions and galleries throughout the province. The TREX program

assists in making both the AFA’s extensive art collection and the artwork of

contemporary Alberta artists available to Albertans. The Grande Prairie Art Gallery

coordinates the program for the AFA in Northwestern Alberta.

Speculative Fictions is on exhibit at the Art Hub until Oct. 1.