We celebrate the life and legacy of Mr. Roy Heenan (1935-2017), legal luminary, arts supporter and legendary art collector.
Being in the art business and aware of ‘who’ collects art, I knew of Roy Heenan before I met him. I also knew that we both shared a very keen interest in Greg Curnoe's artwork.
One evening I made the effort to attend an art tour given by Roy at his Toronto office. I was interested to meet him but also wanted to see his Will Gorlitz painting that he had recently purchased from the Cineplex Odeon collection. Returning home, I did not think anything would come of my brief introduction.
Roy loved art and the business of art. When we attended art fairs in Toronto and Montreal we would see him. He was always pleased when I would step into the aisle and re-introduce myself. He would take the time to visit our booth, often adding another work to his expansive collection.
In the handling of the Greg Curnoe Estate, I want to focus attention on important periods of Greg's work that I feel have been missed. Following our very well received exhibitions, "1961-65" and "Text" in 2014, we were honoured to exhibit rare Greg Curnoe works from Roy's personal collection in "The Life of a Bike", June 2016. Roy was enthusiastic and shared my interest in renewing attention in Greg Curnoe's work.
For that exhibition, I worked with Roy and Rae Heenan over a two year period, visiting Montreal many times. I would usually arrive after lunch and leave late in the afternoon. Our time was spent talking about a vast array of subjects including Canadian art, travel, the Trudeau family, Montreal and his family. It was very much like visiting an artist in their studio. Over our long visits we each discovered that we shared many mutual interests outside of art - swimming in salt water, tennis and travel come to mind.
Rest In Peace Roy. The art business will miss you, but your inspiration will live on.
The Grand Theatre is partnering with the Michael Gibson Gallery on a special art project related to their upcoming production of ART, a hilarious play that explores the idea of what, if anything, defines art - and friendship.
As part of our participation, the Grand has extended a 25% discount off tickets to any of the following shows. Contact us HERE if you are interested in this opportunity.
Clark McDougall "Paintings from 1944-1954" March 3-25, 2017
Opening Reception on Saturday, March 4 from 2-4pm.
Clark McDougall was 23 years old in 1944, a seminal time in the development of his career as an artist. In the decade that followed, McDougall refined his style through extensive learning, exhibiting and travelling. He tried to attend art school, but they told him that he would benefit little from formal training. So, McDougall did what he knew best, and travelled throughout Southwestern Ontario and painted the homes, churches and fields that he loved.
Melanie Authier "Halo", Acrylic on Canvas, 2007, 24 x 30 in.
Should you buy it? What would be a reasonable offer? What is the provenance & condition?
If you are looking to acquire or sell a major work of Canadian art, we are discreet, professional, and take the time to properly research your transaction. Our network of international contacts and the solid relationships that we have within Canada make us uniquely qualified.
We love what we do and enjoy very much the pursuit of excellence. Our fees are negotiable and are pursuant to the difference between a willing buyer and a willing seller.
Contact Michael, who loves to travel, directly HERE or by cell 519.857.4505.
Roy Heenan and myself in Toronto last spring celebrating his Greg Curnoe collection. I lost a friend, a supporter, a confidant and someone who shared many personal interests with me this week. #takethetime #gregcurnoe #collectingart #mentorship #friendships #montrealart #heenanblaikie
Happy Birthday Roly Fenwick! Last year we created a mini-documentary on Roly. It captures his spirit and love of art. Wishing you a fantastic year ahead Roly.
Construction on Carling Street continues as Fanshawe College renovates the old Kingsmills building. Access the gallery and the parking lot via Richmond Street. Please call 519.439.0451 if you have any questions.
