PROVENANCE
Laing Galleries, Toronto
Private Collection, Winnipeg
Hovmand Galleries, Winnipeg
Acquired from the above by a Distinguished Private Collection, Vancouver, April 10, 1969

Franklin Carmichael’s first trip to the La Cloche Mountains region, a rugged area on the north shore of Lake Huron, was likely in 1924. The artist developed a great affinity for the landscape, and in 1935, he built a cabin in the area. Carmichael was especially taken with the unique geological characteristics of the region, where distinctive white quartzite rock formations striate lush, forested hills. Quartzite can have a crystalline quality, and Carmichael embraced the intriguing contrasts of colour and dynamic luminosity he witnessed in the changing environment.

The Blair Laing label dates In the La Cloche Hills to circa 1936, one year after Carmichael built his cabin. Using the cabin as a sketching base, Carmichael thoroughly explored the land, climbing the great hills and seeking interesting and expansive vistas. This animated plein air sketch was undoubtedly conceived on one such excursion. The gestural application of paint captures—and is perhaps a product of—the brisk conditions of the moment. Sinuous trees have been stripped by the wind, the deep-blue lake surface roils, and clouds appear as shredded wisps. In the La Cloche Hills is a bold and dynamic sketch, expressing freshness and vibrancy in every brush-stroke.

All prices are in Canadian Dollars