Lecture Notes on Emily Carr: A Life of Art and Rebellion

Introduction

• Emily Carr is a celebrated Canadian artist known for her paintings and writings.
• Described as a rebel during the Victorian era, dedicated more to her art than traditional roles of hearth and home.
• Known for her eccentric lifestyle, including camping in the woods with animals and a pet monkey.

Early Life

• Born in Victoria, British Columbia, into a well-to-do family.
• Her father, Richard Carr, was an English adventurer who prospered in the California Gold Rush.
• Experienced a strict English upbringing, which influenced her later life.

Artistic Inspiration and Early Career

• Interested in art from a young age; her father mildly encouraged this interest.
• Struggled with family expectations, especially after her mother’s death.
• Studied art in San Francisco but faced familial discouragement regarding her career.

Encounters with Indigenous Cultures

• Visited her sister, a missionary, in a remote village, which sparked her interest in Indigenous art and culture.
• The trip to Alaska further inspired her to document native totem poles and art.
• Aimed to preserve this art through her paintings amidst rapid colonial development.

Paris and the Influence of Post-Impressionism

• Studied in France, where she was influenced by the Post-Impressionism movement.
• Teachers in Paris confirmed her interest in Northwest Coast native artifacts as worthy subjects for high art.
• Upon her return, she combined this style with Indigenous themes, creating a unique artistic voice.

Struggles and Evolution as an Artist

• Rejected by the British Columbia government when attempting to sell her collection.
• Financial struggles forced her to become a landlady, running a boarding house.
• Continued to paint and developed a distinct style influenced by her travels and studies.

Recognition and Later Life

• Gained significant recognition after a 1927 exhibition organized by the National Gallery of Canada.
• The exhibition introduced her to the Group of Seven, particularly Lauren Harris, who became a mentor and supporter.
• Shifted her focus from totem poles to the natural landscapes of British Columbia.

Writing and Legacy

• Achieved success as a writer, winning the Governor General’s Award for her book "Klee Wyck."
• Her writings served as a companion to her paintings, capturing her experiences and views.
• Passed away in 1945, leaving a lasting impact on Canadian art and culture.

Controversies and Posthumous Developments

• Debate around her appropriation of Indigenous culture in her art.
• After her death, the handling of her artwork and estate raised questions about preservation and recognition.
• Despite challenges, Emily Carr remains a significant figure in Canadian art history with a legacy celebrated in both visual arts and literature.