Media Releases

Museum celebrates local artist in fall exhibition
Posted by Children's Museum Admin (cmadmin) on Sunday, 5th July, 2009 at 8:45 PM
Media Releases >>

Not all inspiring art is found halfway around the world - sometimes it can be found in your very own backyard. The Children's Museum of Waterloo Region has proved this before and is proud to be presenting an exhibition this autumn featuring the vibrant and intriguing works of art of local artist Woldemar Neufeld as a collaborative effort with Wilfrid Laurier University.

Woldemar Neufeld: Stories Best Told, a collection of Neufeld block prints, oils and watercolours, is a demonstration of the artist's personal experiences and stories. The diversity of Neufeld's art will take visitors through the thrill of a carnival crowd then to the anticipation of a soap-box racer back to the calmness of a rural landscape - all under one roof.

In celebration of the hundredth year of the artist's birth, the Museum will feature dozens of pieces of Neufeld's art showcasing his talent as a true storyteller. Continuing the Museum's initiatives to integrate art, science and technology, Woldemar Neufeld: Stories Best Told provides an opportunity to discover not only a treasured art collection but that of an esteemed local artist. "The Neufeld show is a wonderful example of how the Museum acts as a stage to showcase community talent," explains David Marskell, CEO of The Children's Museum. "Currently, we are working with a number of partners around the Region in order to bring depth to the exhibition by offering cross generational programming and a shared learning experience."

A Gala Fundraiser in support of the Museum will be held in association with the exhibition. German Contemporary | Here and Now will take place on October 16, 2009 the final Friday of Oktoberfest. As a partner of Oktoberfest the event will serve as an entertaining alternative to the traditional festivities showcasing German innovation, fashion, wine and film in a fun way.

After Neufeld immigrated to Waterloo, ON with his family in 1923, he attended Waterloo College (now Wilfrid Laurier University where a large collection of Neufeld works is housed) from 1927 to 1930 and helped to establish the Kitchener-Waterloo Society of Artists which continues to meet today. During his time spent in the Region, Neufeld had the opportunity to discuss his art with another famed painter from the Region, Homer Watson. With Watson's encouragement, Neufeld eventually left the Region but left a significant impact on the artistic community.

Woldemar Neufeld: Stories Best Told runs from September 19th until January 3rd.