HALIFAX.- Fans of The Group of Seven and other renowned Canadian painters will want to head to the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia for an exhibition that showcases the depth and breadth of one of the finest private collections in Canada.

A comprehensive exhibition of masterpieces from the Sobey collections, Canadian Pioneers: Tom Thomson, Emily Carr, J.W. Morrice and The Group of Seven - Masterworks from the Sobey Collections is being presented at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia through January 6, 2013.

Canadian Pioneers features over 80 works of Canada’s greatest artists and explore the creative spirit of these passionate painters. They include: Emily Carr, Clarence A. Gagnon, David Milne, Tom Thomson, Cornelius Krieghoff, J.W. Morrice and The Group of Seven, among others. This is the first time that these works have been shown together in Canada.

Selected for their outstanding quality, these iconic Canadian paintings represent highlights of the Sobey Art Foundation’s unrivalled collection of historic Canadian art and of the development of painting in Canada, depicting the rugged Canadian landscape and surroundings.

Sarah Fillmore, Curator of Canadian Pioneers says: “It is a rare treat to see these works together in a Gallery context. These artists have defined what has become known as a Canadian style. Visitors will have a chance to see their country, from British Columbia to Cape Breton, through these wonderful artworks. The story they tell is truly our own.”

Donald R. Sobey, Chair of the Sobey Art Foundation says: "We have always been delighted to share this collection of Canadian Art at the Crombie House in Pictou County and now through this exhibition at the AGNS in Halifax. My parents built this collection to preserve Canadian cultural history and this show enables all Nova Scotians another venue in which to see it in our province."

Ray Cronin, Director/CEO says: “The AGNS is thrilled to be able to present such a stellar group of works to our audiences. The generosity of the Sobey Art Foundation and the Sobey Group of companies in making this work available is truly an example of their commitment to the cultural life of this province.”

Canadian Pioneers: Tom Thomson, Emily Carr, J.W. Morrice and The Group of Seven - Masterworks from the Sobey Collections has been organized by the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia and is curated by Sarah Fillmore, Chief Curator at the AGNS.