Beaverbrook Art Gallery

The Beaverbrook Art Gallery, nestled on the southern bank of the Saint John River in Fredericton, New Brunswick, is a treasure trove of artistic and cultural heritage. Established in 1959, this gallery is the brainchild of the illustrious William Maxwell Aitken, Lord Beaverbrook, who generously funded its construction and curated its initial collection. Today, the Beaverbrook Art Gallery stands as New Brunswick's officially designated provincial art gallery, offering visitors an eclectic mix of historical and contemporary art that promises an enriching experience for all who walk through its doors.

The Genesis of Beaverbrook Art Gallery

Lord Beaverbrook's vision for an art gallery in Fredericton began in 1954 when he proposed the idea to Premier Hugh John Flemming. The province accepted his generous offer, providing a prime location directly across from the New Brunswick Legislative Building. Designed by Neil Stewart of the Fredericton architectural firm Howell & Stewart, the gallery's mid-century modern structure boasts a flat-roofed, single-storey design, adorned with pale semi-glazed brick, a granite base, and a frieze of white marble from Philipsburg, Quebec. This elegant design set the stage for a cultural landmark that would grow and evolve over the decades.

Expansions and Enhancements

Since its inception, the Beaverbrook Art Gallery has undergone several expansions to accommodate its growing collection and enhance visitor experience. In 1983, east and west wings were added, funded by Marguerite Vaughan and the Beaverbrook Canadian Foundation, respectively. These additions housed the Hosmer Pillow Vaughan collection of china and decorative arts, and the Sir Max Aitken Gallery.

Another significant expansion in 1995 saw the opening of the Marion McCain Atlantic Gallery, named in honor of the late wife of New Brunswick businessman Harrison McCain, who contributed $1 million to the project. This gallery focuses on art from the Atlantic region, showcasing works by notable Canadian artists.

The most ambitious expansion project commenced in 2015 following a successful $25 million fundraising campaign. This project aimed to transform the gallery into a major destination for contemporary art. The new pavilion, completed in 2017, features increased gallery space, an artist-in-residence studio, a learning theatre, a café, and an outdoor sculpture courtyard. With new mobility access features, including an elevator and ramps, the gallery is now more accessible to all visitors.

The Sculpture Garden

Adjacent to the gallery, the TD Sculpture Garden, inaugurated in 2009, offers a serene outdoor space for visitors to enjoy. The first sculpture commissioned for the garden was The Birth of Venus by New Brunswick Acadian artist André Lapointe. Over the years, the garden has grown to include notable works such as Marie-Hélène Allain's Awakening/Éveil and Dennis Oppenheim's Arriving Home. In 2016, the garden welcomed King and Queen by Sorel Etrog, further enriching its collection of outdoor art.

The Permanent Collection

At the heart of the Beaverbrook Art Gallery is its impressive permanent collection, which began with over 300 paintings assembled by Lord Beaverbrook. This initial collection included masterpieces by J.M.W. Turner, John Constable, Thomas Gainsborough, Joshua Reynolds, and Edwin Henry Landseer. Notable contemporary artists such as Augustus John, William Orpen, and Graham Sutherland also feature prominently, thanks to Beaverbrook's personal connections and discerning eye.

Among the gallery's most prized possessions are three works by Salvador Dalí, including the monumental Santiago El Grande, a 13 by 10-foot painting that has become synonymous with the gallery. This iconic piece, depicting Spain's patron saint James the Great, was created for the Spanish Pavilion at the 1958 Brussels World's Fair and remains a must-see for visitors.

A Growing Collection

Since its opening, the Beaverbrook Art Gallery has continuously expanded its collection, now boasting over 3,600 items. The collection is divided into four main areas: the British Collection, the Canadian Collection, the International Collection, and the New Brunswick Collection. The British Collection remains the core of the gallery, featuring works from the original Beaverbrook collection.

The Canadian Collection highlights 19th and 20th-century Canadian artists, with a special emphasis on the Atlantic region. Visitors can admire works by members of the Group of Seven, Emily Carr, David Milne, and Jean-Paul Riopelle, as well as regional artists like Christopher Pratt, Bruno Bobak, and Jack Humphrey.

The International Collection spans from the 14th to the 20th centuries, including the Hosmer Pillow Vaughan Collection of Fine and Decorative Arts. In recent years, the gallery has also acquired significant works by First Nations artists, modern and contemporary Canadian artists, and international artists, ensuring a diverse and dynamic collection.

Ownership Disputes

The gallery's history has not been without controversy. In 2003, disputes arose between the gallery and the Beaverbrook U.K. Foundation over the custody of paintings purchased by Lord Beaverbrook. A second dispute followed with the Beaverbrook Canadian Foundation over works donated by Lady Beaverbrook. These disputes centered on the foundations' intentions to reclaim and sell valuable pieces to fund their charitable activities. The gallery, however, maintained that it had permanent custody of the works, honoring Lord Beaverbrook's original vision.

Despite these challenges, the Beaverbrook Art Gallery remains a beacon of cultural and artistic excellence in New Brunswick. Its rich history, diverse collection, and commitment to accessibility and education make it a must-visit destination for art lovers and curious travelers alike. Whether you're drawn by the allure of Dalí, the charm of the sculpture garden, or the gallery's ever-evolving exhibitions, a visit to the Beaverbrook Art Gallery promises an unforgettable journey through the world of art.