Animal sculpture by Albert Stewart, one of America’s foremost sculptors of the 20th century, will be on exhibition at the Museum of Ventura County from December 4, 2011 through February 12, 2012.

Animalia: Works by Albert Stewart, Modern Master includes pieces from the collection of Stewart’s daughter, Patricia Stewart Jump of Ventura. Animals were a recurring theme during the prolific career of this artist, nationally known for his animal and architectural sculpture. Stewart’s work can be found on major public buildings throughout the United States. Among his most visible commissions are the facade figures on the Los Angeles County Courthouse, created in 1956, and the stone figures on the Scottish Rite Temple on Los Angeles’ Wilshire Boulevard, completed in 1960. Ventura County residents can also see his work at Our Lady of the Assumption Church on Telegraph Road in Ventura, where he created the Stations of the Cross and two side altar figures.

Stewart also influenced generations of sculptors through teaching. In 1939 he was appointed to head the sculpture program at Scripps College in Claremont, California, where he remained until his death in 1965.
Museum of Ventura County’s exhibitions opening December 4 and running through February 12 also include Simms Taback: Making Pictures For Children, a retrospective of original illustrations by the children’s book author and illustrator; and Expanding The Collections: Gifts From the Collectors Council, featuring recent acquisitions.

The Museum of Ventura County is located at 100 East Main Street in downtown Ventura. Hours are 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission to the exhibitions is $4 adults, $3 seniors, $1 children 6-17, members and children under 6 are free. For more museum information go to www.venturamuseum.org or call 805-653-0323.