Glenboro Sculptor Peter Sawatzky Surprised by Gift from Weiming Zhao

Renowned sculptor Peter Sawatzky received an emotional surprise on October 19, 2023, when fellow artist Weiming Zhao gifted him a painting during the official opening ceremony of the Peter Sawatzky Sculpture Park at the Riverbank Discovery Centre in Glenboro, Manitoba. The artwork features Sawatzky standing before his striking bronze sculpture of 11 caribou, prominently displayed at the centre’s entrance.

Zhao’s painting has its roots in a warm July evening when he was invited to paint during a public presentation by Sawatzky. As Sawatzky spoke about his caribou sculpture, Zhao set up his easel and began capturing the moment. “They didn’t specify what I should paint, but when I saw him standing in front of his sculpture, I thought, ‘Wow, that’s what I’m doing,’” Zhao shared.

Sawatzky reflected on that evening, recalling how he and Zhao struck up a conversation. “I introduced myself, and we chatted for a while. He said he had always wanted to meet me, and I had always wanted to meet him,” Sawatzky noted. After Zhao completed the painting, it was handed over to the Riverbank staff for framing, culminating in the surprise presentation during the ceremony.

Emotional Connection and Artistic Collaboration

Upon receiving the painting, Sawatzky expressed his gratitude, saying, “I was in total shock, I got emotional. But it meant an awful lot to me. It was a real honour, very heartwarming.” The painting now holds a place of significance in his home, currently displayed in his kitchen. “I have coffee in my kitchen — that’s my every-morning start. So when I go in, I’m walking toward the painting. So I’ll see it four, five times a day,” he added.

The newly inaugurated sculpture park features six of Sawatzky’s bronze sculptures, including the caribou, great blue herons, a curious bear, and a doe with her fawn. Each piece reflects Sawatzky’s dedication to celebrating the natural beauty and wildlife of Manitoba, contributing to the cultural landscape of the Riverbank Discovery Centre.

Zhao, who moved to Brandon as an international student in 1991, is known for his captivating paintings that depict the essence of the Wheat City and other locations in western Manitoba. He expressed his admiration for Sawatzky, stating, “Peter is such a deserving artist. It’s been amazing to meet him.” Zhao has painted many of Sawatzky’s sculptures and has plans to complete a piece featuring the great blue herons soon.

The heartfelt exchange between Sawatzky and Zhao showcases not only their individual talents but also the strong sense of community among artists in the region. Such collaborations enrich the cultural fabric of places like Glenboro, fostering connections that inspire creativity and celebrate local heritage.