Emily Carr Chronicles

08/02/2026

Who helped Emily Carr find her way back to the art world?

Years before Emily Carr became one of Canada’s most celebrated artists, she was living in relative isolation in Victoria, struggling to make a living and painting very little.

Then came Marius Barbeau—a pioneering anthropologist and ethnologist whose interest in Carr’s paintings would help set in motion a remarkable chain of events. Barbeau saw something in Carr’s work that others had overlooked. His support helped bring her paintings to the attention of the National Gallery of Canada and ultimately led to the 1927 exhibition in Ottawa that transformed Carr’s career.

But who was Marius Barbeau—and what drew him to Emily Carr and her paintings in the first place? Read the fascinating story of the man who helped open a door that changed Emily Carr’s life.

Read How Marius Barbeau Helped Launch Emily Carr’s Career:
https://emilycarrchronicles.ca/how-marius-barbeau-helped-launch-emily-carrs-career/

08/02/2026

Who helped Emily Carr find her way back to the art world?

Years before Emily Carr became one of Canada’s most celebrated artists, she was living in relative isolation in Victoria, struggling to make a living and painting very little.

Then came Marius Barbeau—a pioneering anthropologist and ethnologist whose interest in Carr’s paintings would help set in motion a remarkable chain of events. Barbeau saw something in Carr’s work that others had overlooked. His support helped bring her paintings to the attention of the National Gallery of Canada and ultimately led to the 1927 exhibition in Ottawa that transformed Carr’s career.

But who was Marius Barbeau—and what drew him to Emily Carr and her paintings in the first place? Read the fascinating story of the man who helped open a door that changed Emily Carr’s life.

Read How Marius Barbeau Helped Launch Emily Carr’s Career:
https://emilycarrchronicles.ca/how-marius-barbeau-helped-launch-emily-carrs-career/

The relationship between Marius Barbeau and Emily Carr was one of the most consequential in Canadian art history. Although they were never close personal friends, Barbeau became one of her […]

07/30/2026

See more details & register at: https://emilycarrchronicles.ca/emily-carr-events/

07/28/2026

Nan Cheney played a significant role in promoting Carr’s work, organizing her annual solo exhibitions at the Vancouver Art Gallery from 1937 – 1941, and preserving her legacy through their friendship, extensive correspondence, and later publications. Are you curious to know more about this important relationship between Emily Carr and Nan Cheney? See blog post: https://bit.ly/3RgoQ2w

07/26/2026

Find out at: https://emilycarrchronicles.ca/how-marius-barbeau-helped-launch-emily-carrs-career/

07/26/2026

Step into the world of Emily Carr on a two hour guided tour in and around James Bay visiting the places she lived, worked, played, wrote about and painted. See more details and register at: https://emilycarrchronicles.ca/emily-carr-events/

07/26/2026

Step into the world of Emily Carr in this issue of Emily Carr Chronicles. Explore how Seattle artist Mark Tobey influenced Emily Carr's artistic vision, read her moving reflections on an Indigenous burial ground, and celebrate the legacy of renowned Carr scholar Kerry Mason. Plus, catch up on current Emily Carr exhibitions across Canada and uncover the remarkable story behind the 2013 auction of Carr's portrait of her lifelong friend, Squamish basket weaver Sophie Frank. Check it out: https://bit.ly/4x9VT7H

Want to step into the world of Emily Carr for real? Sign up for a guided walking tour: https://emilycarrchronicles.ca/emily-carr-events/

04/29/2026

Visit Dave Mason's favourite heritage properties in James Bay, each chosen for its unique architecture, colourful past, and connection to the neighbourhood’s evolving identity. As you stroll tree-lined streets and quiet lanes, Dave shares lively anecdotes, hidden details, and insights into how these historic homes continue to shape community life today including the Carr House on Government Street. Part of the Jane’s Walk James Bay Festival, this relaxed, friendly tour invites residents and visitors alike to see familiar places with fresh eyes and deepen their appreciation for one of Victoria’s most character-filled districts. See more details at: janeswalkjamesbayvictoria.ca

04/29/2026

On Sunday, May 3, join Marilyn on this guided walking tour through historic James Bay. Visiting 10 meaningful locations connected to her life story, participants will explore the neighbourhood that shaped one of Canada’s most original artists and writers. From childhood homes and creative inspirations to community landmarks and quiet reflective spaces, each stop reveals a new layer of Carr’s character, struggles, and achievements. Along the way, hear vivid stories, view archival images, and imagine daily life in early Victoria. This walk offers a rich blend of art, history, and place — perfect for curious locals and visitors alike. See morecdetails at::janeswalkjamesbayvictoria.ca