Challengers of the Status Quo – An Exhibition of George Stuart Historical Figures®
The Museum of Ventura County’s Challengers of the Status Quo features the masterful work of renowned artist George Stuart. Through his remarkable three-dimensional Historical Figures®, Stuart brings to life eleven individuals who defied the norms of their time and reshaped history.
From Madam C.J. Walker, a trailblazing entrepreneur and activist, to Oscar Wilde, a literary genius who dared to challenge societal conventions, each figure tells a powerful story of courage, resilience, and transformation. Visitors will also encounter historical icons such as Florence Nightingale, Abraham Lincoln, and Catherine the Great, each of whom played a pivotal role in redefining political, social, and cultural landscapes.
Every intricately detailed figure depicts a changemaker who was bold enough to question the status quo. This exhibition invites guests to reflect on the impact of visionaries who shaped the world—and to consider how embracing new ideas can pave the way for a better future.
Join us as we celebrate the rebels, innovators, and pioneers who dared to think differently.
George Stuart was a distinguished historian and sculptor, best known for his quarter-life-sized (18-24 inches) Historical Figures, which depict famous personalities from history. He studied fine arts at the University of California and combined his passion for art and history to create over 300 figures, all housed at the Museum of Ventura County. His works are celebrated for their meticulous attention to detail and historical accuracy.
George Stuart
1929-2025
MVC mourns the loss of Curator Emeritus, George S. Stuart. In 1952, George Stuart created his first two Historical Figures, Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. He fanned that initial creative spark into a life-long passion for making three-dimensional portraits. For over 70 years, Stuart captured the essence of history’s most famous personalities in his lifelike Figures.
The partnership between the Ojai-based artist and the Museum of Ventura County began in 1979 when Stuart gifted his collection and began performing monologues at the Museum. Especially fond of historical tales about power and scandal, his performances enchanted Ventura County audiences. His wit, dedication, and creativity will be greatly missed by all of those lucky enough to know him or hear his monologues.