Alfred PellanLife & Work

“I became aware of Pellan’s work during my doctoral research and was immediately drawn to his colourful, Surrealist-infused universe. Since then, I have wanted to write a book in which every page radiates his thirst for freedom, art, and experimentation.”

– Maria Rosa Lehmann

This landmark new publication addresses Pellan’s formative years as well as his later career and how in 1952 he was chosen to show at the first Canadian pavilion at the Venice Biennale art fair—yet at the same time, he struggled for acceptance as he challenged the conservative art establishment in his home province. Brilliantly innovative and unwavering in his battle for artistic freedom, Pellan became one of the most pivotal painters in twentieth-century Canadian art, forging an independent vision that led him to being described by revolutionary art historian Guy Robert as the man who “set Canadian painting free.” His daring compositions, vibrant colours, and belief in the infinite possibilities of creative expression influenced the work of Léon Bellefleur, Jacques de Tonnancour, Mimi Parent, and Goodridge Roberts.

Copyright Information

Image banner: Alfred Pellan, Jeune comédien (Young Actor), c.1935/after 1948. Collection of the National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa (9652). © Estate of Alfred Pellan / COVA-DAAV (2023). Photo credit: NGC.