Step Into History and Art at 'The Galleries' at Laureate College
The communities of Waterdown, Burlington, Oakville, and Hamilton are invited to explore a rich historical and artistic experience at 'The Galleries' at Laureate College, where history meets contemporary art. This unique space brings together past and present, showcasing both the legacy of Sister Mary Gertrude Klein’s artistic contributions to the Notre Dame Convent and the vibrant new direction of the school’s evolving art scene.
The Notre Dame Convent in Waterdown has long been a place of faith, education, and artistry. It was on February 14, 1927, at 5 p.m., when a train from Kitchener, Ontario, arrived at the Waterdown station carrying three sisters, ten candidates, and twenty-two aspirants and boarders. The convent, which commands a breathtaking view of Lake Ontario, Hamilton, Burlington Bay, and the Niagara Escarpment, became a home for young women pursuing their religious and academic journeys. Notre Dame Academy, housed within the convent, shaped countless students, giving them a foundation of faith, stability, and inspiration.
Among those who left a lasting mark on the convent was Sister Mary Gertrude Klein, an artist whose work adorned the walls of the dining area and chapel, enriching the spiritual environment with her talent. Her sister, Mother John Baptist Klein, played a key role in the establishment of the School Sisters of Notre Dame in Canada, serving as the first Provincial from 1927 to 1933 and overseeing the construction of the Motherhouse and Notre Dame Academy.
Building on this historical legacy, Laureate College continues to honor the past while forging an exciting artistic future. Visitors to 'The Galleries' will not only admire the convent’s historic artwork but also experience our contemporary exhibition spaces, featuring a dynamic rotation of new artistic voices. Currently, in the Front Foyer Gallery, we proudly present The Portrait: Studio Portrait Works by Xiaotong Shen, a captivating collection in oil, acrylic, charcoal, and pastel. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the thought-provoking works of Mehreen Hasan and a collective exhibition by the Oakville Art Collective.
Join us for a weekend of art, history, and inspiration. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history lover, or simply looking for a wonderful way to spend time with family, a visit to Laureate College’s 'The Galleries' is an experience not to be missed!
