Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery

Time is running out to sign up for KWAG’s Summer Camp! Give your artsy kids the chance to grow their talents, make new friends, and see the world through the eyes of an artist. Our first week is packed with creative adventures that will inspire and delight, but registration is closing soon. Register now for a summer of unforgettable experiences!

https://kwag.ca/upcoming-events?title=&type=9

KWAG is seeking a new Development Coordinator to help shape the future of our gallery. This fully on-site role involves managing membership renewals, conducting research for grants and sponsorships, and coordinating special events. If you have a passion for community engagement and development, apply now by heading to our website:https://kwag.ca/sites/default/files/Development%20coordinator_June24.pdf

Don't miss this exclusive interview with renowned sculptor Billy Gauthier, conducted by Robert Williams for Waterloo Region Record. During this interview Billy talks about his life ambitions and what inspired him to become the artist he is today. He truly brings his culture to life in every piece he sculpts. After reading, visit KWAG to experience his largest exhibition to date, where each work will captivate and move you. On display until October 20.

https://www.therecord.com/news/waterloo-region/i-want-you-to-fall-in-love-with-my-culture-inside-the-world-of-one/article_4715e664-4076-50b8-89f0-1944904f8cb0.html

‘I want you to fall in love with my culture’ — inside the world of one of Canada’s must-see artists ‘You are about to discover an artist who is at the top of their game, who is really achieving things that not many artists can’

Ready for a summer filled with creativity and fun? KWAG’s Summer Camp offers an amazing artistic experience for kids ages 6-13. Sign up now for a summer they’ll always remember.

https://kwag.ca/summer-camps

Explore the powerful narratives in Deanna Bowen's collection, "Black Drones in the Hive," as part of KWAG's Public Domain series. Bowen's work unveils new perspectives on history, highlighting the broader narrative of Black survival in Canada and the United States. Watch now on our YouTube channel!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEV9palpUxk.
On view in Deanna Bowen: Black Drones in the Hive (Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery, 2020-2021): Based on a design modelled by William Hackwood (English, 1738-1820) and made by Josiah Wedgwood (English, 1730-1795). “Am I Not A Man And A Brother” British Abolitionist Token ½ Penny, ca. 1796. Copper. 3cm dia. Photo courtesy of KWAG.

Public Domain | Deanna Bowen KWAG has produced five short documentary videos titled Public Domain. Each video introduces an artist whose work is in the KWAG Permanent Collection.This vid...

We are excited to highlight a significant addition to the Permanent Collection that was donated to us last year: the 1944 print "St. Michael's Cathedral" by David Milne.

After spending a period in Muskoka, Milne moved to Toronto in 1940, where the city's landmarks became subjects for his work. St. Michael’s Cathedral, opened in 1848 and located at Bond and Shuter Streets, would be the subject of two watercolours he made while living in the city. This print, produced three years later, is an excellent example of the artist’s drypoints. It captures the textured architectural form of St. Michael’s Cathedral with heavily-inked, confidently articulated lines and glowing orange windows, offering a loose yet deliberate quality. One of the last published prints by the artist, it continues to be a fine example of Milne’s drypoint technique.

This acquisition was generously gifted by Mr. and Mrs. John M. and Elizabeth Kerr in 2023. Notably, Mrs. Elizabeth Kerr served on the Women’s Committee of the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery.

Come visit us to experience more of the Permanent Collection firsthand!

…
Image: David B. Milne (Canadian, 1882-1953). St. Michael's Cathedral, 1944. Drypoint print, 26.8 x 29.2 cm (sheet). Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery Permanent Collection: Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John M. and Elizabeth Kerr, 2023. Photo: Robert McNair.

This is the final week to visit Body Beautiful, a powerful exhibition curated by community curator Bangishimo Photography. Don't miss this thought-provoking exploration into the shame often associated with our bodies and how colonialism imposes Western beauty standards that marginalize Indigenous and other racialized bodies.

https://kwag.ca/exhibitions/body-beautiful

We are just hours away from the opening celebrations of Billy Gauthier: Sila. Special guests tonight include artist Billy Gauthier, filmmaker Jennie Williams, and FASTWÜRMS, one of the 2023 winners of the Governor General's Awards in Visual and Media Arts. Kitchener's own will be playing some righteous tunes. See you later!

Image credit: Billy Gauthier, A Beautiful Struggle, 2024, Antler (Caribou), serpentine, horn (Muskox), ivory (Woolly Mammoth), Labradorite. From the collection of the artist. Image by KWAG.

Join us this Sunday to hear the stories behind key artworks in Gauthier's most significant exhibition to date. From 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. Billy will be at the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery to discuss the key pieces of his exhibition Sila and the stories that brought them to life. This is a free event, but pre-registration is required.
https://www.facebook.com/share/PQzVppeFbfCgBHDm/

Sunday, June 23
2:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M.
Free, pre-registration required
https://kwag.ca/civicrm/event/info?id=833&reset=1

Artist talks at KWAG are generously sponsored by Momentum Developments and Sorbara Law.

Image: Billy Gauthier bio photo, provided by the Artist.

Send a message to learn more

We’re thrilled to announce that Inuk Visual Artist Jennie Williams will join Billy Gauthier for the opening celebration of "Sila," as well as the exclusive talk and tour we’re hosting with him. Jennie, the brilliant mind behind the documentary "Nalujuk Night," which will be showcased on the first night of our Inuit Film Series, brings a unique talent that vividly portrays the cultural landscape and lived experiences of the Inuit. Her work is truly thought-provoking. Discover all our upcoming events featuring Jennie Williams, Billy Gauthier, and the rest of our summer programming by visiting our website.

https://kwag.ca/exhibitions/billy-gauthier-sila
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Image provided by Jennie Williams

Waterloo-Wellington Museums and Galleries NFB Explore Waterloo Region

Looking for one-of-a-kind Friday night plans? This Friday 21 June is KWAG's opening celebration of Sila by Billy Gauthier and by FASTWÜRMS. The KWAG party kicks off at 7 p.m. with tunes from DJ King Kadeem as we welcome special guests including artist Billy Gauthier, filmmaker Jennie Williams, and FASTWÜRMS, one of the 2023 winners of the Governor General's Awards in Visual and Media Arts.

Image 1: Billy Gauthier, Northern Frigidaire Diet, 2012. Serpentine, antler (Moose and Caribou), horn (Muskox), slate. 8.9 x 10.2 x 8.9 cm. Collection of Chris Bredt and Jamie Cameron. Photo courtesy of Spirit Wrestler Gallery.

Image 2: FASTWÜRMS, MATT MONS Venus (detail), 2023. Tufted textile, acrylic wool. Photo by Toni Hafkenscheid.
City of Kitchener City of Waterloo

Looking for a way to make your child's summer memorable? Sign them up for KWAG's Summer Camp! They’ll explore new art forms, make friends, and have their imaginations tested. Perfect for kids ages 6-13 and will run from July 8 to August 16.

You can register on our website: https://kwag.ca/summer-camps

We also have scholarships available! you can apply here:https://kwag.ca/sites/default/files/civicrm/persist/contribute/files/KWAG%20Summer%20Camp_Scholarship%20Application%20Form_2024Fillable-edit.pdf

Parents and caregivers, are you looking for an enriching activity for your child on the upcoming PD Day? The Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery has the perfect solution! Sign your kids up for our June 28 PD Day Camp and let them dive into a world of creativity and fun. During the camp your children will explore new and loved art mediums, interactively collaborate on projects, and learn from seasoned art instructors in a safe and supportive environment.

Give your child a day filled with creativity, learning, and fun at KWAG’s PD Day Camp. For more information and to sign up, visit KWAG’s website or contact us directly https://kwag.ca/civicrm/event/info?id=799&reset=1

Explore Waterloo Region Waterloo-Wellington Museums and Galleries

We are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of Billy Gauthier's highly anticipated exhibition, "Sila". The official opening will take place on 22 of June, with an exclusive viewing for our members on the 20 of June and a public opening celebration on 21 June.

Billy Gauthier's "Sila" promises to be a captivating display of extraordinary artistry, reflecting his profound connection to nature and Inuit culture. This exhibition is a testament to his unparalleled skill and vision, and we are honoured to host such a remarkable collection.

We eagerly look forward to welcoming everyone to experience the beauty and depth of "Sila".

Learn more about Billy Gauthier, the exhibition, and related events by heading to our website: https://kwag.ca/exhibitions/billy-gauthier-sila..
Photo: Billy Gauthier, Sedna’s Tears (detail), 2008. Serpentine, labradorite, slate. 31.8 x 30.5 x 6.4 cm. Collection of Chris Bredt and Jamie Cameron. Photo courtesy of Spirit Wrestler Gallery.

We have a few spots still open for this year's Summer Camp and we can't wait to meet all the campers who are coming this year! We have several themed weeks of exciting activities that will allow your little ones to explore all that the world of art has to offer. Let's get your child away from the screens this summer and help them unleash their talent through imaginative artistic play.

Register on our website and remember to check out our summer camp scholarship opportunities. You can find the information on the Summer Camp registration page. https://kwag.ca/summer-camps

Attention friends, We’re experiencing a few technical hiccups on our website. Some registration buttons are acting up, and a few links from our posts might not be working properly.
If you run into any issues, please reach out! You can contact us through the info on our website or just drop us a message here on our social media.
Thanks so much for your patience and understanding. We’re on it and will have everything running smoothly soon!

In tandem with Billy Gauthier's exhibition Sila and Kathleen Daly's exhibition Northern Exposures, KWAG is hosting a three-part Inuit Film Series. The series highlights the work of Inuit filmmakers, artists and production crews as they bring Inuit storytelling and knowledge into the new millennium. The worldmaking and sensitive bridging of traditional knowledge with contemporary media throughout this series are expressions of arctic cultural sovereignty and resilience. You can catch the first installment playing on 27 June starting at 7:00 p.m. https://kwag.ca/civicrm/event/info?id=836&reset=1

The films that will be played include:
Evan's Drum By Ossie Michelin
Being Prepared by Carol Kunnuk
Nalujuk Night by Jennie Williams

KWAG Inuit Film Series
Thursday, 27 June
Starting at 7:00 p.m.
FREE..
Photo provided by Jennie Williams

Join us for an insightful walking tour through downtown Kitchener, guided by an experienced Architectural Guide. Explore the area's cultural heritage sites, community connections, and the unique contemporary architecture that defines Kitchener. This tour delves into the city's past, its vibrant present, and promising future.

Tours depart from the KWAG Sculpture Garden. Please arrive 10 minutes early, wear comfortable footwear, and dress for the weather, as tours continue rain or shine (except in severe weather conditions).

Saturday, 22 June
1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
$10 + HST
Register Here: https://kwag.ca/civicrm/event/info?id=814&reset=1
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Image: Photo by benedek
Downtown Kitchener Explore Waterloo Region Waterloo-Wellington Museums and Galleries

Beloved community! Our website and registration system will be offline for scheduled maintenance today, Monday, June 10. If you wish to register for any programs or peruse our exhibitions, we'll be back online later today. We apologize for any inconvenience caused. Thank you for your understanding.

Indulge in our immersive Sensory Tour where you are able to enjoy our current exhibitions through sight, sound, and touch. This tour will provide you with descriptive audio while you explore the textures of the various art pieces using touch boards and parts of the exhibitions that are designed to be handled.
To register, please visit our website: https://kwag.ca/civicrm/event/info?id=791&reset=1

Sunday, 16 June
1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Free, registration required

Join us on the 23 of June as we hear the awe-inspiring stories behind Billy Gauthier's sculptures during his talk and tour here at KWAG. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to hear the tales of Billy's adventures in Northern Canada and his connections to the earth and community. We look forward to seeing you at this incredible day of storytelling and shared experiences.

You can register for the event by heading to our website: https://kwag.ca/civicrm/event/info?id=833&reset=1

Sunday, 23 June
2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Free, pre-registration required..
Image: Billy Gauthier bio photo, provided by the Artist.

We are pleased to invite you to the opening celebration of Billy Gauthier's latest exhibition Sila. Be one of the first to see a completely new sculpture made right on time for this exhibition. You can also listen to the outstanding tunes that will be provided by local DJ King Kadeem. We look forward to having you here. For more information on the event head over to our website: https://kwag.ca/civicrm/event/info%3Fid%3D832%26reset%3D1

School is almost out for the summer and we're counting down the days to the beginning of KWAG's popular Summer Camp. Based in our professional studios, kids will learn to stretch their imaginations through sculpting, drawing, painting, printmaking and more. Not only does artmaking enhance their skill set, it connects kids with new friends and improves confidence in an inclusive and encouraging environment.

Check out our Summer Art Camp Scholarship: https://kwag.ca/sites/default/files/civicrm/persist/contribute/files/KWAG%20Summer%20Camp_Scholarship%20Application%20Form_2024Fillable-edit.pdf, applications are accepted on a rolling basis and deadlines have been dropped.

Each camp includes free extended care with light activities. https://kwag.ca/summer-camps

Explore Waterloo Region Waterloo-Wellington Museums and Galleries Waterloo Region Community Foundation

Explore the outdoors for your cyanotype subjects and produce several of your own photographic prints using the sun! This fun workshop will take you back to the 19th century when cyanotype first began and you get to experiment with it using a variety of non-traditional materials such as eggshells, leaves, fabric, and wood. Join us by registering on our website: https://kwag.ca/civicrm/event/info?id=798&reset=1

Explore Waterloo Region -Wellington Museums and Galleries

Join us next Sunday for our Family Sunday program, a special activity that's great for the whole family! We will be hosting a fun-filled afternoon of art creation and exploration inspired by our current exhibition and learning about textile and clay art!

Sunday, 9 June
1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
FREE..
1) FASTWÜRMS, Rainbow Volcano, pink, 2023. Watercolour on paper. 17.8 x 25.4 cm. Photo courtesy of the Artist.
2) Photo by KWAG

Waterloo-Wellington Museums and Galleries Explore Waterloo Region

We are looking for enthusiastic individuals who love art to join our team as Gallery Guides. Guides give educational and entertaining tours of the gallery's exhibitions.

For more information and to apply, visit our website:https://kwag.ca/sites/default/files/website_files/galleryguide_2024.pdf

It's hard to believe that today is the last day of May. The year is already nearly half gone. To commemorate we're highlighting a piece from our permanent collection "May Day" by Homer Watson. This beautiful oil painting captures the beginnings of summer and the lush green tone the earth takes on during this time of year. Enjoy many other pieces on display from our permanent collections by visiting the gallery this weekend.

A bit of history about Homer Watson:

Homer Watson was a native of the village of Doon (now a part of Kitchener, Ontario) who demonstrated artistic talent at a young age and began a self-directed study of painting by examining the books in his father's library.

His first professional exhibition occurred in 1879 when he was twenty-four years of age.

He gained his national and international reputation in 1880 when the Marquis of Lorne, Governor General of Canada, and his wife, Princess Louise, daughter of Queen Victoria, purchased his painting "The Pioneer Mill" as a gift for the Queen.

A second painting, entitled "The Last of the Drought", was sold to Queen Victoria the following year and both remain a part of the Royal Collection in Windsor Castle.

After studying and travelling abroad through the 1890s, Watson was happy to return to his Doon home where his art was inspired by the natural landscapes of Waterloo County.

Watson is recognized as a Canadian landscape painter and his work is a testament to his love for the surroundings that were familiar to him since childhood...
Image: Homer Watson (Canadian, 1855-1936). “May Day”, 1927. Oil on paperboard, 45.7 x 60.9 cm. Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery Collection: Gift of the Estate of Col. H.J. Heasley, 1973.

We are hiring Art Instructors! If you are an artist who enjoys teaching and working with others, head over to our website for more details on how to apply:https://kwag.ca/sites/default/files/website_files/art_instructor_kwag_2024.pdf

Step into the cool allure of the Arctic right here at KWAG's lobby, where this captivating art piece, "Mist and Frost Pattern" by David B. Milne sets the stage for our summer exhibitions.

This work compliments the main exhibitions in our gallery this summer featuring the powerful creations of Billy Gauthier and Kathleen Daly Pepper. This is your unique chance to experience the wonders of snow and ice during the summer!..
Image: David B. Milne (Canadian, 1882-1953). Mist and Frost Pattern, 1917. Watercolour on paper, 38.8 x 56.8 cm. Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery Collection: Gift of the Douglas M. Duncan Collection, 1970. Photo provided by KWAG.