After nine months of partial closure, the Museum of Vancouver is preparing to unveil a fresh chapter.
On June 20th the museum will reopen its feature galleries with three new exhibitions, marking a milestone in both infrastructure renewal and curatorial direction.
The upgrades—focused on modernizing the building’s aging HVAC system—promise improved air quality and visitor comfort in the 1960s-era structure.
While the permanent galleries remained open during the renovations, this reopening signals a new era for the museum, now under the leadership of CEO Ryan Hunt, who began his tenure May 1.
The trio of exhibitions spans history, reconciliation, and design:
The Work of Repair: Redress & Repatriation at the Museum of Vancouver examines the MOV’s evolving approach to decolonization and Indigenous collaboration. It highlights efforts such as the repatriation of belongings to the Tŝilhqot’in Nation, ongoing community engagement, and research that seeks to reconnect Indigenous items with their cultural contexts.
Deep-Seated Histories: Chairs from the Collection brings out 150 chairs from the museum’s collection to reveal stories of Vancouver’s past. From notable citizens to changing ideas of leisure and labour, the humble chair becomes a lens on the city’s social and industrial transformation.
Future Makers: Chairs by New Designers showcases the work of student teams from Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s Wilson School of Design. Using vintage marine-grade mahogany from the museum’s own storage, these one-of-a-kind chairs reflect themes of sustainability, innovation, and historical reflection.
“Whether you’re a regular, a first-time visitor, or someone who hasn’t been to the Museum of Vancouver in years, there is something fresh and engaging for everyone this spring,” said Hunt.
“From exploring the history of Vancouver through chairs, to reflecting on how the Museum is working to redress harms, to giving a platform for future makers to share their innovative work, you will find something to inspire you at MOV.”
More information on the exhibitions and visiting hours is available at museumofvancouver.ca.
Last modified: May 30, 2025
