WAUKESHA, WI.- The new John Lennon original art and Beatles memorabilia exhibit is rapidly evolving at the Waukesha County Museum. Entitled “Coming Together through the art of John Lennon”, the display will debut with a grand opening ceremony on August 15, 2008, followed by an opening to the general public on August 16, 2008 at 10:00 am.

The exhibit will feature two distinct showings:

Original art of John Lennon - A collection of Lennon’s original drawings, serigraphs, and lithographs – purported to be the third largest collection in the world – have been held by an anonymous private collector for decades.

Fans will recognize the titles of several of Lennon’s original drawings, such as “Double Fantasy” and “Give Peace a Chance” as well as other loving portraits of Lennon with wife, Yoko Ono, and sons Julian and Sean. Four original drawings (similar to drawings) from the Bag One series (on display for viewers over 18 only) include some nudity, which resulted in the originals being confiscated by Scotland Yard during a 1970 exposition.

Beatles memorabilia - A remarkable collection of actual recorded singles and albums by the Fab Four, as well as original U.S. concert tour programs, newsreels and photographs documenting the group’s visit to Milwaukee in 1964 will be included in a collection on loan from former Milwaukee DJ Bob Barry and other collectors. In the gallery -- perhaps most exciting will be the display of the actual studio microphone used by Lennon to record his iconic single, “Imagine”.

“The Beatles span generations of fans, and we are excited to bring these collections to the public,” said Kirsten Lee Villegas, executive director, Waukesha County Museum. “When the doors open, we will have created an interesting, eclectic presentation.”

Just a few weeks into her new position, Villegas is already infusing the organization with a renewed sense of vibrancy that will draw visitors from all over the Midwest.
“This exhibit will be one of the many new and exciting displays and opportunities we plan to deliver over the coming months and years,” added Villegas.

Tickets can easily be purchased online at the museum’s website or through the museum gift shop during regular business hours. For more information, call (262) 521-2859 or visit www.wchsm.org.