Michael Snow (1929-2023) was one of the most remarkable multi-disciplinary Canadian artists.
Renowned for his wide-ranging body of work, from experimental films and jazz recordings to sculptures and large-scale public art, Snow masterfully navigated between populist and avant-garde forms. His unparalleled versatility across mediums sets him apart as a singular force in Canadian 20th century art.
In 1977, the Art Gallery of Ontario presented an exhibition that explored the 20th-century resurgence of tapestry, weaving and textile-based art across Europe and the United States.
"Canadian Tapestries 1977" marked the first time Canadian artists designed editioned tapestries, which later found their place adorning the walls of commercial and public buildings for widespread appreciation.
In addition to Snow, some of the other Canadian artists that created textile works included Gershon Iskowitz, Christopher Pratt, Joyce Wieland, Sorel Etrog and William Perehudoff, to mention a few.
"Tapestry Sketch" is a preparatory work that offers a glimpse into Snow's creative practice.
In this work, a bold assortment of diagonal bars stretch across the composition, completed in variant shades of tangerine, fire engine red, and rose quartz. A meticulous grid overlays the surface of the work, evoking the illusion of a brick wall—a conceptual and cheeky motif, particularly in the context of an indoor display.
Snow's tapestry was selected for the cover of "Canadian Tapestries 1977," the official AGO catalogue for the exhibition.
Today, Snow's work is held in numerous public collections including The MoMA (NYC), the Art Gallery of Ontario, and The National Gallery of Canada (Ottawa). In 1981, Snow was awarded the Order of Canada and upgraded to a companion in 2007 in recognition of his international contributions to visual arts.
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"Untitled Tapestry Sketch"
Canada, 1976
Gouache on carton
Signed by the artist, bottom right
10.5"H 19.5"W (work)
18.25"H 30.25"W (framed)
Very good condition.
Note: the price is $6,500 CAD
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