The Museum of Ventura County is thrilled to present “Winter,” a captivating new exhibition featuring figures from the George Stuart Historical Figures® Collection. This exhibit brings to life the winter traditions, symbols, and customs of six cultures from across the globe and throughout history, including Russia, Norse Scandinavia, Qing Dynasty China, Revolutionary War-era Valley Forge, Victorian England, and the native Chumash people. Each figure showcases the meticulous historical research and artistry for which Stuart’s collection is celebrated. “Winter” opens on Thursday, November 21, at the Museum’s main campus and runs through February 23, 2025.
Visitors will journey across continents and centuries, beginning with Norse winter mythology, exploring the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, and visiting George Washington’s Continental Army at Valley Forge. A section on Victorian England offers a look at beloved holiday traditions in their early forms, such as caroling, Christmas cards, and decorated trees. The exhibit then delves into the Chumash winter solstice traditions before culminating in Qing Dynasty China with a celebration of the Lunar New Year and the arrival of spring.
Renowned historian and sculptor George Stuart studied fine arts at the University of California, where he combined his love of art and history to create over 300 figures—many of which reside at the Museum of Ventura County. His quarter-life-sized Historical Figures (18-24 inches) are lauded for their extraordinary detail and historical accuracy.
About the Museum: The Museum of Ventura County fosters connections to history, art, and culture through engaging exhibits and community experiences. The main museum is located at 100 East Main Street, Ventura, California, and the Agriculture Museum is at 926 Railroad Avenue, Santa Paula, California. Both locations are open Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit venturamuseum.org for more information.
