David and Gail O’Brien stand on the terrace of Glenbow’s revitalized home, the JR Shaw Centre for Arts & Culture.
Glenbow is thrilled to announce a $2 million gift from Gail and David O’Brien as part of Glenbow Reimagined. In recognition of the O’Brien’s generosity, the new double-height third-floor gallery will be named in their honour when Glenbow reopens at JR Shaw Place.
Gail and David O’Brien’s significant contribution reflects their ongoing dedication to their community and their commitment to fostering diverse arts and culture experiences. This gift also underscores long-standing commitment to Glenbow. Gail joined Glenbow’s Board of Governors in 1998, and served as Vice Chair, as well as a member of its first capital planning committee. From 2020 to 2025, Gail served as co-chair of the Glenbow Reimagined Campaign.
“I believe strongly in the power of Glenbow’s transformation,” says Gail O’Brien. “Families and visitors from every postal code in Calgary and beyond will share the extraordinary beauty and cultural experiences at Glenbow, experience a shared sense of beauty, history, and better understand Canada and the world.”
“I am excited by how Glenbow is reimagining the building and programming. When Glenbow reopens at JR Shaw Place, the building’s soaring architecture will brilliantly showcase the vast Glenbow collections and draw exhibitions from all over Canada and around the world.”
