Established in 1976, the Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies (CIUS) is a global leader in the field of Ukrainian Studies. In support of the University of Alberta and Faculty of Arts mission and values, the Institute is dedicated to the production, preservation, and dissemination of expert knowledge about Ukraine and Ukrainians in Canada and worldwide.
George Blair Brown was born in Solsgirth, Clackmannanshire, Scotland on November 23, 1878. Brown trained as an engraver in Stirling and Glasgow, Scotland and he became an expert in metal chasing and repousse. Brown moved to Killam, Alberta on April 15, 1910 intent on becoming a farmer. On a holiday to Edmonton, however, he was persuaded to return to his trade as an engraver.
Later he served with the Canadian Forces during the First World War and was with the 49th Edmonton Regiment from 1915 until 1919. After the war he returned to Edmonton and in 1923 he became a member of the Edmonton Art Club. Four years later, in 1927, he became Vice President of the club. He was also a member of the Canadian Society for Graphic Art and the Society of Canadian Painter-Etchers and Engravers.
In 1933, Brown commenced etching and devised a method of printing, not related to a mangle or plate printing press. Brown also worked out a new process, which he called “Fire Etching” in which he used dry-point repousse and heat treatment to secure a range of colours without the use of pigment. In later years he turned to wax painting, not having the strength to handle the new plates in engraving. His etchings have been exhibited all over the world including an exhibition at the World's Fair in New York.
He married Blanche Margaret Douglas (1905-1982) in Edmonton in 1944. George Brown died on November 30, 1965 in Edmonton, Alberta.
Nick Buk was born in 1904 to Maria, and Peter Buk. Peter and Maria had immigrated to Canada from Medyka, Austria in 1903. Nick attended Vegreville High School, Alberta in 1917. At 17, Nick began teaching at Nizir School. In 1922, he returned to high school and completed Grade 12.
Nick taught in various schools in Alberta before studying electrical engineering in University. In 1931, Nick finished university, and returned to teaching until 1936. Throughout his career, Nick taught at the following schools: Nizir, Willow Range, Hannly, Pobeda, Russia, Hillock, and Lake Eliza. In 1937, he bought the Two Hills Motors Garage. In 1944, he sold the garage and built a cold storage locker plant with his brothers William and John. In 1953, he lost his business in a fire. Nick then returned to his family's homestead.
Nick died in 1990. He is buried in Lanuke Cemetery.