From November 19, 2013 – February 2, 2014, the Smith Gallery will host 18 of George Stuart’s exquisitely detailed ¼ life-size sculptures of an eclectic group of famous and infamous historical characters.  Among these featured figures are Vlado Tepes, the 15^th century ruler from present-day Romania who gained notoriety for executing some 20,000 persons; Theresa of Avila, a Spanish Carmelite nun, who worked to make the church more responsive to the needs of the common people;; and Abraham Lincoln, considered of America’s all-time favorite historical figures for saving the Union and abolishing slavery.

George Stuart will elaborate on each of the Historical Figures® over the course of two intimate presentations in the Smith Gallery. These events kick-off the George Stuart Audio Project, which aims to establish a comprehensive archive of George Stuart commentary on each of his Historical Figures. Part I will take place on Tuesday, January 21, 2014 from 2 to 3p.m. Part II will be presented on Tuesday, February 4, 2014, from 2 to 2 p.m. Prior to each lecture, there will be a reception with refreshments in the Museum’s Courtyard. Space is limited to 30 attendees. Reservations can be made at 805.653.0323 x 7. Admission is $10 for MVC members and $15 for the general public

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. Paid events include free admission to the galleries, and the first Sundays of every month are free general admission for the public. For more museum information go to www.venturamuseum.org or call 805-653-0323.