Nation-building prime ministers focus of 150th exhibit

An art gallery in Cavan is celebrating Canada’s birthday with an exhibit of the prime ministers who helped build the nation.

Galerie Q is showcasing the Nation Builders, painted by Peterborough resident Sandra MacGillvray.

The 12-piece collection features portraitures that include Pierre Trudeau, Sir John A. Macdonald, Lester Pearson, and Robert Borden.

Through symbols and illustration, each painting reveals the prime minister’s vision and accomplishments.

The exhibit will be revealed on July 1 between 1 to 2 p.m., before MacGillvray speaks to the crowd from 2 to 3 p.m. Then there’s live music and cake from 4 to 6 p.m. A raffle draw will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Nation Builders will remain on display until July 29, before moving onto other heritage and Canadian culture venues. The series will be published into a hardcover book this winter.

Galerie Q is also hosting celebratory events during the week leading up to July 1.

On June 26, there’s a tour of the gallery from 1 to 3 p.m., where visitors can learn about the traditions of French-Canadian painting and of the techniques used by featured artists.

There’s a games day on June 27 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. There’ll be Canadian trivia and art-themed games.

It’s art and yoga on June 28 from noon to 1 p.m. Space is limited, so email info@galerie-q.com to reserve a spot.

An outdoor painting session will be set up for kids on June 29 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

On June 30, there’s a community mural painting from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Canada-themed piece will be exhibited at the gallery. Later that day, from 4 to 6 p.m., the gallery is screening Charade, starring Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn.

The day after the gallery’s Canada Day celebrations, there’ll be high tea from noon to 3 p.m. There’s also a pop-up artist sale happening on July 2 from 11 a.m to 5 p.m.

All events are free. JNyznik@postmedia.com