In an era when checking the time often involves consulting a device that is proficient at enticing us to waste it, Christian Marclay's tour de force installation The Clock offers a long, luxurious diversion. Mr. Marclay (and researchers) spent three years amassing clips from film and TV to create a 24-hour looped video that represents every minute of all 24 hours, unfolding in real time, essentially functioning as an actual clock. The ambitious work has won widespread acclaim and in 2011 received the prestigious Golden Lion at the Venice Biennale.

On Friday, it has its Western Canadian debut at the Art Gallery of Alberta. In addition to screenings during regular hours, the AGA will host three 24-hour screenings.

Christian Marclay: The Clock is at the AGA in Edmonton Friday at 7 p.m. until April 12.