Helen McNicoll: Life & Work

by Samantha Burton

One of the most important Impressionist artists in Canada, Helen McNicoll (1879–1915) achieved a great deal of international success in a career that lasted just over a decade. Born in Toronto and raised in Montreal, McNicoll trained at the Art Association of Montreal before moving to London, England, to pursue her passion. Deaf from the age of two, the artist travelled extensively across Europe and was well-regarded at home and abroad for her bright and sunny representations of rural landscapes, charming child subjects, and modern female figures. Elected to the Royal Society of British Artists in 1913 and the Royal Canadian Academy in 1914, McNicoll died in England in 1915 at the young age of 35.

127 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 2020

Reviews

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the good fortune to attend the Art Gallery of Ontario and see the exhibit. Stunning. I knew very little about McNicoll, her life and her art. Now, through my gallery experience and this book I have developed a deep appreciation of her work.

Too often, Canadians tend to look beyond our own boundaries to find great literature, art, music and other accomplishments in the world loosely defined as ‘the arts.’

After seeing the exhibition and then reading with pleasure Burton’s book I have gladly added her work to my appreciation of other artists of Canada. Our Group of Seven and Emily Carr now have another artist that I greatly respect.

McNicoll’s Impressionist painting celebrate women, celebrate life and offer images will remain in my mind long after my initial viewing. They are now part of my most memorable experiences. Supported by Burton’s lavishly illustrated book I can return to McNicoll’s world any time I choose.

This book deserves to be on the shelf of anyone who loves art.

[Julia Extance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very nicely done book on the artist's life, key works, and artistic style. It's a large-size book, but since the pictures take up a good amount of space, not too long of a reading experience. I will really enjoy flipping through again to look at the pictures (lots of them too).