SASKATOON.- Remai Modern will celebrate its first anniversary on October 21. After a year in operation, Canada’s museum of contemporary art bested many of its targets for the year, from memberships to overall visitation.

“On October 21, 2017 we opened a building. What has happened at Remai Modern since is the birth of a vision. I’m delighted that the people of Saskatoon and beyond have embraced the exhibitions, the space and the programs as we bring a global art experience to the local community,” said Gregory Burke, Executive Director & CEO of Remai Modern.

“I want to extend my thanks to our donors, sponsors, members, volunteers and visitors for their incredible support of the museum. I also want to thank the Remai Modern team and board for their hard work to realize this longstanding dream. We look forward to bringing more one-of-a-kind exhibitions, new ideas and transformative experiences to the public in 2019 and beyond.”

Since opening, Remai Modern has shown more than 120 artists, with works dating from 1860 (a painting by Cornelius Krieghoff, one of Fred Mendel’s original gifts) to today. Visitors have viewed, heard and experienced works by leading contemporary artists from Saskatchewan and around the world.

People have also explored their own creativity in the Cameco Learning Studio, taken home one-of-a-kind gifts from the Art & Design Store, dined on fabulous food at Shift and shared in memorable experiences, from LUGO and Fireworks on the Terrace to live performances and films.

“Seeing this building alive with art, activity, conversation and community has been immensely gratifying,” said Scott Verity, Remai Modern Board Chair. “On behalf of the entire board I want to thank the people of Saskatoon for supporting the museum in its first year.”

Key figures from Remai Modern’s first year:

• 453,176 visits — exceeding our business plan goal of 190,000
• $484,579 in admission revenue — exceeding our business plan goal of $410,000
• 9,138 members — exceeding our business plan goal
• 4,884 member households
• $364,133 in membership revenue — exceeding our business plan goal of $108,500
• 54,525 participants in Learning & Engagement programs
• 44,365 patrons at Shift Restaurant
• 20,192 items sold in the Art & Design Store
• 8,300+ attendees at Remai Modern live events
• 20,000+ visitors to Rawlco Radio Free Admission days
• 40 per cent of visitors from outside of Saskatchewan