ARCA OC OSA
1927 - 1977
Canadian
Dogs Barking at Artist in Alberta
mixed media on board
initialed and on verso titled, dated 1966 and inscribed "RTT", "50" and variously
24 x 19 3/4 in, 61 x 50.2 cm
Estimate: $30,000 - $50,000 CAD
Sold for: $118,000
Preview at: Heffel Toronto – 13 Hazelton Ave
PROVENANCE
The Isaacs Gallery Ltd., Toronto
Private Collection, Vancouver
LITERATURE
William Kurelek: A Retrospective, Edmonton Art Gallery, 1970, listed, unpaginated
Tobi Bruce et al., William Kurelek: The Messenger, Winnipeg Art Gallery, 2011, page 147
EXHIBITED
Edmonton Art Gallery, William Kurelek: A Retrospective, September 20 - October 20, 1970, catalogue #50
As a child, William Kurelek lived in Whitford, Alberta, before moving to Manitoba in 1934, when he was just seven years old. His memories were foundational in his art, so it is no surprise that as an adult, he returned to his childhood home, exploring the region and taking photographs, as had become his practice. He recalled of his home, “I went inside a few years ago and photographed it from every angle. Then I just sat down and mentally, deliberately, probed every corner for memories. I just couldn't remember any of it at all. It is all so small now.” Around the same time, Kurelek painted this work, which is a self-portrait of sorts, as he is likely to be the artist depicted, sitting in the snow with his camera, perhaps taking some notes for a work. The dogs in the distance bark and approach, well aware of the presence of a stranger. It is a charming work, capturing a humorous moment typical of farm life, as well as a poignant time when the artist looks back on his childhood.
This work is in the original frame made by Kurelek.
Estimate: $30,000 - $50,000 CAD
All prices are in Canadian Dollars
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