There's a lot of Atlantic Canadian art here.

A9

Meredith O'Hara

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The Fredericton Art Gallery is one of those places that locals always mean to get to, but maybe never find the time. But during this less than perfect August weather it's a great trip out for locals and visitors alike. The gallery was founded in 1959 and since then has been the provincial gallery for the province. It's a quiet place, probably not great for energetic kids.

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As you enter there are a number of different ways to go, but all of them will take you somewhere interesting and all the rooms connect so eventually you'll see everything.

For those interested in the local art there's a large exhibit of Atlantic Canadian art, including historical, modern and native pieces. For something even more New Brunswick you can wander through the Building New Brunswick exhibit which was developed from a new book of the same name by John Leroux. There, visitors will see photos, designs and models of architecture from around the province. It's a mix between, art, history and culture and is certainly worth a look.

Moving to the other side of the building there are more modern pieces. Some are beautiful, some interesting and some weren't my cup of tea, but that's part of the experience. Everyone views art differently so maybe I'm just missing the point. As my boyfriend who came with me commented so often, "sometimes I don't get art."

My favourite part is the Beaverbrook Collection. For those interested in history this is the place for you. Along with the many paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries there are different pieces of furniture that are artistic in their own way. Their oldest painting is from 1440 and the oldest artifact dates from between 1340 and 1350. The gallery was definitely worth a stop in and if you're interested in more art there are a number of smaller galleries to check out around the city.

Gallery 78 is just around the corner from the Beaverbrook and offers a look at more Atlantic Canadian artists as well as being the sole dealer in Atlantic Canada of internationally acclaimed artists like Bruno Bobak, Molly Lamb Bobak, Anne Dunn and Joe Plaskett.

There are also exhibits at the Charlotte Street Arts Centre and the City Hall Gallery.

Or check out Ingrid Mueller Art Concepts or the New Brunswick College of Craft & Design.

For the artist or the art enthusiast, there's lots to see in little old Fredericton.