County of Lambton

07/03/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/03/2024 12:33

Celebrate the Group of Seven at JNAAG

Sarnia, ON - The Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery (JNAAG) is excited to invite the community to celebrate the newly proclaimed Group of Seven Day, honoring the legacy of Canada's iconic group of painters. This special event will take place on Sunday, July 7, providing a unique and interactive experience for art lovers of all ages.

The Group of Seven, renowned for their breathtaking depictions of Canadian landscapes, have left an important mark on the country's artistic heritage. Although their influence reaches far and wide, Ontario holds a special place in their story as the province they called home.

Event Highlights:

  • Guided Tours: Join us for an in-depth exploration of the Group of Seven's masterpieces currently on display at JNAAG. Our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights into the artists' lives, techniques, and the significance of their work. Tours will be 30 minutes in length starting at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. Register for a tour at jnaag.ca/seven.
  • Exclusive Exhibition: Visitors will have the unique opportunity to see the actual paintboxes and tools used by the Group of Seven on display in Jon Sasaki's Homage, where he combined art and science by swabbing these items and photographing the results. Additionally, the Tom Thomson and the Group of Seven exhibition features their stunning artworks from our permanent collection.
  • Interactive Art Studio, Drop-In, 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.: Get playful in our art studio with a coloring page activity connected to a favorite piece from JNAAG's permanent collection. This hands-on activity is perfect for both children and adults looking to engage with the art in a fun and creative way.

"The gallery looks forward to celebrating Group of Seven Day and sharing the surprising legacy these artists have with the local community," says Sonya Blazek, Curator / Supervisor, Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery. "Their contributions to Canadian art continue to be a fruitful ground for artists to engage with in contemporary ways, which is something our visitors will get to see when they visit."

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit jnaag.ca/seven.

About Bill 78, Group of Seven Day Act, 2023

Following the passing of Bill 78, the province has officially dedicated a day to celebrate the legacy of the Group of Seven, a collective of iconic Canadian landscape painters who called Ontario their home. This act recognizes their cultural significance and enduring influence on Canadian art. Learn more through the Bill 78, Group of Seven Day Act page of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario website.

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Please contact:

Sonya Blazek
Curator / Supervisor, Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery
County of Lambton
519-336-8127 ext. 3220
Email Sonya Blazek