A memory of a cornerstone of Calgary retail space, lost during the demise of the centuries-old Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC), will soon be up for sale. Heritage Calgary will be hosting its awards gala at the Fairmont Palliser on Nov. 9. One of the events during the night will be the auction of a one-of-a-kind commissioned artwork of the HBC department store on Stephen Avenue, created by Calgary artist Lauren Shipton. Details of the auction, including any information about a reserve bid, were not released. The Heritage Awards is an event to celebrate those who champion Calgary’s history, officials said. “Calgary is home to a rich heritage filled with stories that have shaped who we are,” said Erika Topola, executive director of Heritage Calgary, in a news release. “The Heritage Calgary Awards celebrate the people and projects helping to tell these stories and ensure our shared heritage continues to be part of Calgary’s future.” Stephen Avenue’s HBC building closed in 2025 after the company declared bankruptcy, citing massive debts to several suppliers and companies it rented buildings from. In early May, Astra Real Estate Corp. announced its intention to buy the Calgary landmark. It’s believed the developer will use the building for condos.
