Saturday, November 15, 2025, was a day of celebration at the Gallery. We were honoured to host Kathryn Bridge and pay tribute to her work in realizing the publication, 'Unexpected: The Life and Art of Sophie Pemberton 1869-1959.' - Written by Margaret Chrumka, AGGV Director of Visitor Experience and Programs.

In conversation with AGGV chief curator Steven McNeil, Kathryn Bridge shared stories of the investigative work required to answer questions about Sophie Pemberton’s life and motivations as she persisted in her efforts as an artist. Bridge’s inspired talk reminded us of Pemberton’s important role in the history of Canadian women artists and the many unexpected events that not only propelled but also impeded of her recognition.

We extend our immense gratitude to Kathryn Bridge for working with us as the author of this catalogue and as curator of the exhibition that was shared September 2023 to January 2024 at the Gallery. We extend our deep appreciation to the catalogue supporters; Heffel, AGGV Gallery Associates, Richard Holmes, Horne Coupar LLP, and Kevin Neary, Traditions Consulting Services Inc.

If you were unable to make it to the launch, please enjoy this visual recap of the event:

Steven McNeil, AGGV Chief Curator & Director of Exhibitions (left), and Kathryn Bridge, Guest Curator and catalogue author (right) in conversation at the Publication Launch.
The new publication, Unexpected: The Life and Art of Sophie Pemberton, 1869-1959.
Happy new owners of the Sophie Pemberton publication in line for signing by Kathryn Bridge.
Kathryn Bridge personalizes copies of the new catalogue.
Some examples of Sophie Pemberton’s paintings featured in the catalogue.
Sophie Pemberton paintings hung in the Salon Style historical section of the AGGV permanent collection display, A View From Here: Reimagining the AGGV Collections.

Unexpected: The Life and Art of Sophie Pemberton 1869-1959 is on sale now in the Gallery Shop.

A View From Here: Reimagining the AGGV Collections is an ongoing display of the AGGV’s permanent collection.
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Feature Image: Steven McNeil, AGGV Chief Curator & Director of Exhibitions (left), and Kathryn Bridge, Guest Curator (right) in conversation at the Publication Launch.