Christmases at 646 Simcoe Street, snoozing by the fire with Ko-Ko and Woo the Monkey, a treacherous but pivotal journey up north to Haida Gwaii – and the tender reception of a good friend and mentor…
These are the moments we can recollect from these written messages. Emily Carr’s Corresponding Letters not only provides insight on Emily Carr’s private life but sheds light on the passionate, talented and wonderfully wild woman who created some of the most influential art Canada has ever seen.
Each of these letters is representative of a time in her life. The first letter to Charles and Winnie Evitt that was likely written in 1913 depicted a young Carr full of energy and excitement for her career and travels. The next, written to Nan Cheney, shows a kind and thoughtful side to Carr, written in 1931 when her career was truly taking off and she was starting to gain recognition for her work. The last letter, to Lawren Harris, which was written in the later half of her life, shows an artist looking back on her process and even reveals her own self doubts and worries.
Through her correspondence with her dearest friends, readers can piece together Carr’s story from her perspective, completely unfiltered and real. These are genuine stories written and remembered, from a life forever celebrated.
