E.J. Hughes is famous for his strong, appealing images of the landscape and seascape of British Columbia: distinctive in clarity of form and colour, yet tinged with an air of mystery. His remarkable career as an artist, which continues to this day, spans seventy years and encompasses his work as a gifted printmaker, successful muralist, outstanding Canadian war artist and prolific painter. A true son of British Columbia, Hughes’ stylized realism has earned him a unique place in the history of Canadian art.
In this major retrospective, some 110 works created by this renowned artist highlighted evocative symbols of life on the west coast – ferries crossing the Georgia Strait, picturesque fishing villages and farm houses, flaming arbutus trees and imposing coastal mountains.
The exhibition tour is generously supported by the Audain Foundation; additional support provided by the Museums Assistance Program, Department of Canadian Heritage. Organized and circulated by the Vancouver Art Gallery.