FREDERICTON, New Brunswick, August 15, 2006 - On behalf of the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, the Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister Responsible for New Brunswick, today announced the support of Canada's new Government for the Beaverbrook Art Gallery. This support will enable the Gallery to produce a retrospective exhibition of the works of New Brunswick artist Miller Gore Brittain.
The project, entitled "The Life and Works of Miller Gore Brittain (1912-1968)," will feature paintings, drawings, prints, and archival materials. Guest curator Thomas Smart will author a catalogue of the exhibition that will address the historical, cultural, and social impact of the artist's creations. A Canadian tour of the exhibition and an educational component are also planned.
"Our Government is committed to ensuring that Canadians have access to collections and exhibits that feature the works of great Canadian artists," said Minister Oda. "I am proud to support the Gallery's efforts to make the works of Miller Gore Brittain better known in Fredericton and throughout Canada."
"Investments like this allows all Canadians to discover and appreciate the diversity and richness of our cultural heritage," said Minister Thompson. "We are committed to building great and vibrant communities with a rich cultural life."
"The Gallery gratefully acknowledges the financial assistance of the federal government through the Department of Canadian Heritage," said Mr. Bernard Riordon, O.C., Director and CEO of the Beaverbrook Art Gallery. "Miller Gore Brittain was one of Canada's finest artists, and our retrospective exhibition will provide access to his work for audiences across Canada. We welcome the opportunity to showcase this important artist."
The Beaverbrook Art Gallery was established in 1959. Its collections include artworks from Canadian and international artists. Miller Gore Brittain was born in Saint John, New Brunswick, in 1912. He studied at the Arts Students League in New York, where he was influenced by the social realism artistic movement.
Financial assistance of $83,173 for this project is being provided from 2006 to 2008 by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Museums Assistance Program. This program provides financial support to Canadian museums and related institutions for projects that foster excellence in museum activities and that facilitate access to the treasures of our collective heritage.Information:
Nancy Heppner
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women
819 997-7788
Richard Roik
Special Assistant, Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister Responsible for New Brunswick
613 996-4649
Claudine Daigle
Director of Communications,
Atlantic Region
Canadian Heritage
506 851-3980
