African Menagerie Exhibit Discusses Wildlife Conservation

The new exhibition, "African Menagerie: The Inquisition," at the Canton Museum of Art (CMA) showcases the artwork of one of the world's premier painters of wildlife: Brian Jarvi. This panoramic adventure discusses the plight of African wildlife species with a visually stunning centerpiece measuring ten-foot by five-foot. Over forty related research sketches and mixed media studies accompany this lavishly painted centerpiece. The works call attention to the Earth's wildlife extinction crisis. From the jungles around the equator, where mountain gorillas and chimpanzees barely endure, to the grasslands of Zimbabwe, the animals whose very iconic presense has become a symbol of wildness to all of us, are dwindling at an alarming rate. This exhibition is on view April 26, 2018 - July 22, 2018 with a free public reception on Thursday, April 26, 2018 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

A limited number of in-person media interviews are available with Brian Jarvi and may be scheduled on a first come, first serve basis. Please contact the CMA Marketing Director, Rob Lehr, to schedule a time with the artist while he visits Canton on April 25 and 26.

Art Gone Wild: Africa - Free Family Day
In conjunction with the exhibition, a family day at CMA is planned for Saturday, May 19, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Visitors will journey to Africa with art activities, a scavenger hunt, and animals from the Akron Zoo - it's sure to be fun for all ages. The event is free and open to the public. More details to be announced in April. Registration required because space is limited: http://www.cantonart.org/wild

About The Artist
Brian Jarvi uses firsthand observation to create very popular, realistic portrayals of wildlife. By combining intricate detail, dramatic lighting, and anatomical accuracy, he has become widely known for his "up close and personal" compositions. Africa and its incredible wildlife has been Jarvi's passion for the past decade. Amidst the lush African scenery and wildlife, Brian creates new masterpieces. "The excitement lies in transferring situations I have witnessed on Safari onto canvas," says Jarvi. "When choosing the themes and subjects of my paintings, I like to draw on personal experience, for example, a bull elephant making a charge or lions attacking a cape buffalo. The tremendous diversity, the sheer numbers, and often-sobering confrontations of the wildlife have spawned more ideas than I can ever hope to put on canvas."

A Minnesota resident most of his life, Jarvi is the first artist to win both the Minnesota Duck and Pheasant contests in consecutive years and only the second artist in history to win both Minnesota's major print contests.

Brian spent his youth in northern Minnesota sketching the rugged land and the animals that inhabit the area. Today, Jarvi, his wife Raelene, and their two daughters live on a lake in the north woods. Jarvi continues to go on Safari to expand his repertoire of experience and knowledge of the majestic African imagery.

Support for Conservation
Jarvi`s concern for the environment and the protection of animals runs deep. His artwork has helped raise money for many conservation organizations including Pheasants Forever, Minnesota Waterfowl Association, Ruffed Grouse Society, National Wild Turkey Federations, Ducks Unlimited, The American Oceans Campaign, The Washington Department of Natural Resources, Dallas Safari Club, Safari Club International, and SCI Foundation.

About the Canton Museum of Art
The Canton Museum of Art (CMA) is one of Ohio's premier museums for an exceptional visual arts experience. CMA is recognized for powerful national touring exhibits; dynamic CMA-original exhibits; an unrivaled Permanent Collection of American watercolors and contemporary ceramics; and innovative education outreach programs, in-Museum classes, and workshops. CMA is one of only two Stark County museums accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. For more information, including hours, exhibits, classes, and special events, call 330.453.7666, visit www.cantonart.org, Facebook at "Canton Museum of Art," or @CantonMuseum on Twitter.

Admission: Regular admission is $8 Adults; $6, Seniors and Students (with valid I.D.); Museum Members are Free; and Children 12 and under, Free. Tickets are available at the Museum Ticket Office during Museum hours. For group visits, discounts, and tours, please call 330.453.7666 at least two weeks prior to your visit for reservations and/or to request a docent-led tour.

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