The Staff and Advisory Committee of the Tom Thomson Art Gallery are thrilled to announce the re-opening of the Gallery to the public on Wednesday, July 21, 2021, premiering a compelling staff-curated exhibition titled the nature of it. This exhibition highlights the wide range of artwork by various artists that have been added to the Gallery’s Collection through the generosity of many donors over the last several years. This exhibition also prominently showcases works by Grey County Artist George McLean which were donated by Alexander Tools Ltd. through the late businessman and Philanthropist David Braley this spring.

More on the nature of it: An exhibition of recent acquisitions to the Gallery’s Collection, including a major donation of artworks by George McLean from the Philanthropist, businessman, politician, and sports team owner David Braley (1941-2020), through his Hamilton-based company Alexander Tools Ltd. Braley was a long-time collector of George McLean’s work, purchasing numerous artworks for his home and business. This exhibition will explore the confluence of human ‘nature’, innate desires, and the environment in light of the pandemic and its effects both on our external and internal landscapes, questioning what comes naturally to us.

“Despite the challenges of the pandemic, we have been busy both with re-visioning our future through the development of a new Strategic Plan and with enhancing our physical spaces through important renovation projects. In May, the galleries underwent a flooring replacement and we also took the opportunity to refresh our Gallery Shop," says Aidan Ware, Director and Chief Curator, Tom Thomson Art Gallery. "The revitalized public spaces, along with our new vision, values, and plans, has set the stage for a new and vibrant chapter for the Tom Thomson Art Gallery. We hope it’s our pleasure to welcome you for many days to come as we move past this unprecedented time.”

source: media release, Tom Thomson Art Gallery