November 8, 2024
Ventura County – The Museum of Ventura County is excited to present a new exhibition, “Winter,” featuring figures from the popular George Stuart Historical Figures® Collection. The exhibit includes miniature depictions of life through six cultures from around the world and throughout time including Russia, Norse Scandinavia, Qing Dynasty China, Winter at Valley Forge, Victorian England, and the native Chumash and examines the rich history of their winter symbols, customs, and celebrations. Each of the figures in this exhibit demonstrates the comprehensive historical research and artistic details essential to their creation. “Winter” opens on Thursday, November 21st at the Museum’s main campus and will continue to run through February 23, 2025.
“Winter” is a journey across the globe and through time that begins with Winter Mythology in Scandinavia, an exploration of the folklore and mythology of the Norse people. The journey continues with a look at the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, then continues to Valley Forge to see George Washington’s Continental Army as they faced a brutal winter during the American Revolutionary War. A look at Victorian England provides a snapshot of some of our enduring winter traditions in their earliest form, including Christmas carolers, cards, and trees. The exhibit then delves into the winter solstice traditions of the Chumash before concluding with a celebration of the end of winter and the coming of spring with the Lunar New Year in Qing Dynasty China.
George Stuart is a distinguished historian and sculptor, renowned for his quarter-life-sized (18-24 inches) Historical Figures, which capture famous personalities throughout history. He studied fine arts at the University of California and combined his passion for art and history to create over 300 figures, most of which are housed at the Museum of Ventura County. His works are celebrated for their meticulous attention to detail and historical accuracy.