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| Science as Art- Botanical Illustrations of Canadian Tree Fruit Varieties | |||
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Travelling Exhibit |
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Exhibit Description: "For here... the very ethos of botanical art is being expressed through its combination with that other altruistic pursuit, plant breeding". -Mark Flanagan Royal Botanical Gardens It is believed that modern plant breeding began in 1865 with the publication of Gregor Mendle's discoveries, but seeds found in burial tombs suggest that plant breeding truly began in ancient Egypt. Closely linked to plant breeding, botanical art has also enjoyed a long history, as it was artists who first captured the images of new plant varieties. Plant breeding in Canada officially began under the guidance of the federal government in the 1880s. After the House of Commons passed "An Act Respecting Experimental Farm Stations", five farms were established across the country in Nova Scotia, Ontario, Manitoba, the Northwest Territories (present day Saskatchewan), and BC. Although the federal government continues to be involved in plant breeding, universities, provincial governments, and private companies have become increasingly active in the development of new plant varieties. Science as Art features ten watercolours of Canadian tree fruit varieties by Okanagan artist Joanne Beaulieu, paired with ten text panels revealing their lineage and characteristics. Commissioned by the Kelowna Museums Society, Beaulieu has masterfully produced a collection of images which depict several plant breeding success stories of Canadian research stations located in Summerland, British Columbia, and Harrow and Vineland, Ontario. When displayed alongside the text panels corresponding to each variety, the visitor is exposed to beautiful visuals, and is provided with insight into the many improvements that Canadian plant breeders have contributed, not only to the fruit industry, but also to the long history of cultivating new plant varieties. Science as Art has been presented by the Kitimat Centennial Museum, the Museum of Northern British Columbia, the Bulkley Valley Historical and Museum Society, and the Terrace Art Association. Contact: For further information on this traveling exhibition, please contact the Associate Director, Exhibitions & Public Programming- (250) 868-4847 |
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