Hands down my favourite gallery in Halifax. Adriana has always managed to create that diverse gallery of local talent in an accessible and FUN atmosphere. Remember when art was fun? So does Argyle Fine Art. Which means it doesn’t matter what you’re looking for — from dramatic landscapes to cool edgy portraits — from the small and affordable but groovy pieces to large works by established artists, Argyle has it. Absolutely worth seeking out!
Shannon H.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Halifax, Canada
To be fair to all the other art galleries, I have yet to visit many of you. So when I say Argyle Fine Art is my fave, take it with a grain of salt. However, I really, really love this place, so dethroning it will be wicked hard. Good luck to those who attempt it. I don’t know if it’s those beautiful front windows that showcase the art so well, or if it’s the secretive hush that occurs around you on the second floor, but this little nook of art just makes me feel calmer and happier. The local artists that display their works here are amazingly talented, and it’s not just canvas hung on the wall. No, Argyle also exhibits pottery, sculpture, felted works, jewelry, screen-printing, stamp-making, and Legos. It’s a pretty eclectic space. I’ve purchased several things here, but my favourite was my first– A fabulous grumpy guard by Nick Brunt that I love, love, love. He’s traveled the city with me, and oh, the stories he could tell! I’ve also given people gifts from here and they’ve all gone over super well. Highly recommended, get over here already!
Kim H.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Halifax, Canada
I love this gallery — it’s small but they always have the cutest exhibits on and products for sale, I love exploring it slowly and quietly. I was there most recently for their ‘Cat Person’ show, which seemed to be tailor made for me, the crazy cat lady. They had really adorable cat-themed jewelry and other trinkets that tempted me to spend a great deal of dough! I picked up a couple of ‘Cat Person’ pins and now wear them proudly(like a dork). The scrabble tile pins and beautiful jewelry in the case by the cash also caught my eye. It’s like a really cool boutique as well as a gallery. It’s so bright and sunny in here it makes you happy just to walk in, and it’s in such a great location you can take in a yummy drink or meal before or after your art excursion. I find some art galleries can feel a bit cold and pretentious but this one feels so accessible and welcoming; I love that they really open up their art to anyone who has even the slightest interest — no snobbery whatsoever. Keep it up, AFA!
Ben B.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Vancouver, Canada
While Argyle Fine Art still holds claim to my consistently favourite art gallery from exhibit to exhibit, I’m definitely going to miss the charm of their Historic Properties location on the Halifax waterfront. I popped in today to check out their new digs on Barrington Street(so late, I know…) and as usual loved so many of the pieces displayed throughout both floors. From Melissa Townsend’s owls to Angela Carlsen’s vintage road signs, I just love how they’re able to bring some life into the art scene. Still, I have to admit that the new space feels pretty cold compared to their old home — white walls and a pretty raw feel. But don’t worry — once you see the art you won’t spend much time worrying about the walls.
Joel K.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Halifax, Canada
Amazing art, jewelry, and other fun things, and lots at very affordable prices! Just stop in and check it out. It’s a super no-pressure place, so take your time and have a look. I’ll definitely be back soon. I picked up a really cool ring for the girlfriend while I was there that she absolutely adores, so it’s definitely a great place for unique, fun gifts for friends and family.
Lesley-Anne S.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Kitchener, Canada
I liked the old location better(it was a great venue for events), but I really dig that they are on Barrington Street now. The big street front windows shout, «hey! we have art in here!» and you feel like you can go in and browse. Sure, you could always go browse the gallery, but the new location and staff make it seem like you’re browsing any other store downtown. Accessible art? Yes, please. The staff are great and will chat about the art with you, without making you feel like you need to be an art expert. They make art fun. I like the mix of pieces and the range of prices. It’s a great place for starting a collection(and probably for adding to a more established one… I’m still in the starter phase of collecting).
Rhia P.
Rating des Ortes: 3 Halifax, Canada
What a welcome addition to Barrington Street. This little gallery showcases young local talent in a welcoming and unintimidating storefront. The current show of Yo Rodeo’s 3-D art is a perfect example of the kind of fresh and funky works you can expect to find within their doors. With two floors to peruse, a healthy selection of unframed prints, and prices within the reach of many, the gallery is well worth a visit when you have a few minutes to spend in the downtown core.
Katie M.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Halifax, Canada
What sets Argyle Fine Art apart from many of the other little art galleries across this city is that it has established itself as more progressive and unique, a departure from the usual maritime folk art you find predominantly in this city. Don’t get me wrong, I have an appreciation for that art form as well, but Argyle Fine Art gets me excited because it offers a different point of view. I first heard of this gallery when I was visiting the Harbourfront Marriott and while admiring a painting in the dining area, was informed that this gallery was the source and that it has many off-site art exhibitions, a few of which are in the city. This out sourcing is a great idea in my opinion and leaves more room in the gallery itself for special events and concerts that are hosted here. When they say they have something for everyone they are telling the truth, it’s easy to pick out a number of pieces at any given time that I would kill to own. The prices might not suit everyone however, so don’t fall too far in love with anything before you take a look at the tag. Hot Hint: If you are an artist and would like to have your work featured here you can check out the«Art Submissions» section of their website and send in a portfolio of work and an exhibition proposal in order to be considered.
Lacey H.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Berlin, Germany
I’m going to Argyle Fine Art tonight for an engagement celebration /moving away party and I’m very much looking forward to it. It is such a lovely space with really neat peices on display from some super talented locals. When I was in last, I was actually working for the Atlantic Film Festival and the space was being used for one of the functions. The staff were very accommodating and it was a lovely place to mix and mingle while enjoying a drink. I really appreciate that the gallery is open to being rented for private occasions. It adds something special to a soirée when there is art to peruse while listening to music and celebrating someone’s special occasion. I’m sure tonight will be a smashing good time. Keep in mind when you venture to the gallery that it’s actually on Lower Water Street and not Argyle like the name suggests.
Shawna D.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Halifax, Canada
Argyle Fine Art is a pretty neat gallery. They focus on local talent a lot which is great for the region. They have a variety on display there and the staff are very warm and inviting you to explore the space. The area of Historic Properties and buildings are fabulous in themselves with the beautiful brick. This is worth the stroll down to have a look.
Courtney M.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Ottawa, Canada
Argyle Fine Art is a great little gallery showcasing all sorts of different local wares: pottery, paintings, graphic art, sculpture, and i’m sure a host of other sub categories that I don’t know enough about to be able to identify. ‘Argyle’ is situated on upper water street in a beautiful old heritage building that really adds to the allure of the gallery. I definitely recommend going in and giving ‘Argyle’ a look. Walking through this place made me wish that my budget allowed for art purchases. ‘Argyle’ is currently showing a range of pieced titled: «Block Party.» This exhibit is described as «[presenting] the viewer with all the contents of a fantasy world, separated into seemingly arbitrary categories, and compressed into gigantic cubes.» Very visually appealing. There was also a piece called«Moose» which was comprised of textile pieces and wood– extremely well done I thought. Check out Argyle Fine Art! Especially if you have money for such things.