President's Welcome
The exhibition introduced in this web site provides
a fascinating glimpse of the extensive art collection bequeathed
to the University of Victoria by the late Michael Collard Williams,
and gives us an insight into the tastes and interests of that discerning
collector.
Throughout our University's history, community
support has been ongoing and crucial. The establishment of our Gordon
Head campus was greatly assisted by a bequest of cash and commercial
properties from local businessman, Thomas Shanks McPherson. Subsequently,
Katharine and John Maltwood founded our Maltwood Art Museum and
Gallery with a gift of property, an endowment and an extensive art
collection.
The generous legacy of Dr. Michael Williams -
an extraordinary gift that included commercial properties, business
interests and this major modern art collection - continues this
tradition. In his last will and testament Michael indicated that
his collection should provide for study and enjoyment by faculty
and students and also by the general public. We intend to honour
that wish and build on it. This exhibition honours Michael's tremendous
legacy to the University of Victoria and the broader community.
I am delighted we have been able to bring it to downtown Vancouver.
David H. Turpin, PhD, FRSC
President and Vice-Chancellor
University of Victoria
Selected works from the vast Michael Williams
collection of West Coast art will be displayed at the Pendulum Gallery (HSBC Building) in Vancouver from March 8-19, 2004. The exhibit sponsor is HSBC Bank Canada. |