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His gift was more than art
Winnipeg, Canada -July 8, 2009 - On July 4 of this year, internationally acclaimed sculptor and artist, Leo Mol, passed away in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He leaves behind a legacy of artistic creations which can be seen around the world including Canada, Argentina, Brazil, the U.S. and Europe.
Born Leonid Molodozhanyn on January 15, 1915 in Polonne, Ukraine, his artistic career began as a young boy when he carried on the family tradition and studied pottery at his father's knee. From these simple beginnings, Leo Mol went on to study art and hone his craft in Vienna, Berlin and the Hague in Amsterdam.
In 1948, Leo Mol and his wife Margareth emigrated from war-torn Europe to Winnipeg. Here he started applying his craft as a ceramic artist and church painter, but soon gained prominence as a skilled sculptor and stained-glass artist. By the 1960's, he had earned international commissions for his bronzes.
In 1989, Leo Mol received the Order of Canada in recognition of his artistic contributions. He was also awarded the Shevchenko Medal, the highest honour possible from the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, in 1971, and the Order of Manitoba in 2000. He received honorary degrees from the University of Manitoba, Alberta, and Winnipeg.
A wonderful compilation of Leo Mol's sculptures are viewed every year by thousands of visitors from around the world at the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden in Winnipeg's Assiniboine Park. Having accumulated a large collection of his work and wanting to keep it together, Leo Mol donated his collection to the people of Winnipeg. More than 300 of his works are housed in this garden which was unveiled in 1992. To learn more click here Leo Mol Sculpture Garden.
A talented artist with humble beginnings, Leo Mol was very proud of his Ukrainian heritage. He will be remembered as a very accomplished artist and ambassador for our Ukrainian Canadian community. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his wife Margareth and many friends.
Leo Mol
1915-2009
Вічна Йому пам'ять
Eternal Memory
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