Gallery to Host Teddy Bears

One of the most beloved childhood toys is coming to the Mary E. Black Gallery. Teddy Bears: 100 Years of Love and Comfort is an exhibit that will explore the history of these adorable creatures and showcase original designs by local artists.

Famous for their comforting qualities, teddy bears have a long and rich history. From humble beginnings as family-made toys crafted from scraps of old cloth to mass-produced replicas, teddy bears continue to be a childhood favourite.

In recent years, collectors from around the world have recognized the unique designs and craftsmanship of the traditional hand-made bears, making teddy bears one of the top three collectible items. This new status has created a surge in the custom teddy-bear- making industry where an original hand-made bear can fetch hundreds of dollars.

The exhibit's curator, Janice Rogers, said the collection also shows an interesting element of humanity.

"The bears personify human characteristics, and provide comfort through those qualities, which is why they have been loved for all these years," she said.

The 91-bear exhibit will feature antique bears, bears from special collections and locally designed, hand-made bears.

The exhibit runs from Aug. 2 to Sept. 7 at the Mary E. Black Gallery in the Nova Scotia Centre for Craft and Design, 1683 Barrington St. The gallery is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.