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LOT 036

OC RCA
1942 - 2019
Canadian

Van Gogh Arrives in Paris
painted ceramic sculpture, circa 1983
24 5/8 x 19 x 8 in, 62.5 x 48.3 x 20.3 cm

Estimate: $30,000 - $50,000 CAD

Sold for: $85,253

Preview at: Heffel Toronto – 13 Hazelton Ave

PROVENANCE
Susan Whitney Gallery, Regina
Acquired from the above by the present Private Collection, Montreal, 1983

LITERATURE
Terrence Heath, Joe Fafard, National Gallery of Canada and MacKenzie Art Gallery, 2007, page 127, the 1983 earthenware and acrylic paint sculpture entitled Dear Vincent reproduced page 126


In Joe Fafard’s series of sculptures based on well-known artists, his depictions of Vincent van Gogh occupy a special place. In the winter of 1982 to 1983, Fafard read Dear Theo, an edited collection of van Gogh’s letters to his brother. Terrence Heath wrote, “The impact of van Gogh’s thoughts was profound. Fafard became fascinated, not just with van Gogh’s work but with his entire approach to working as an artist and living as a seeking, troubled, but always intensely vibrant human being.” Fafard then traveled to Europe to see a retrospective of the artist’s work at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.

Van Gogh arrived in March 1886 in Paris, where he shared his brother Theo’s apartment in Montmartre. In this sculpture, Fafard depicts van Gogh stylishly dressed, with a hopeful gaze that perhaps reflects his experience of the exciting and creative milieu in which he found himself. In the painted surface, Fafard used pastel colours from van Gogh’s palette, particularly in the tones in the face. In Fafard’s most affecting sculptures, he imbues his subject with a living presence, and in this extraordinary work, he has captured van Gogh’s sensitive psyche.

This is a rare original ceramic work by the artist.


Estimate: $30,000 - $50,000 CAD

All prices are in Canadian Dollars


Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.