Morrice in Venice:
A Curatorial Talk with Sandra Paikowsky
This spring, the McMichael opened Morrice in Venice—transporting visitors to the canals, piazzas, and winding streets of Venice through the eyes of one of Canada’s most accomplished modernists, James Wilson Morrice (1865–1924).
While many artists of his time painted Venice in sweeping, picturesque views, Morrice took a different approach. Between the mid-1890s and 1908, he returned to the city almost every year, capturing its quieter, more intimate moments. His paintings reveal glimpses of secluded alleys, lively squares, and the daily rhythms of Venetian life—rendered with a masterful play of colour and light.
The exhibition was developed under the leadership of Sandra Paikowsky—an acclaimed Canadian art historian, curator, and writer who quite literally wrote the book on Morrice’s Venetian years. Author of James Wilson Morrice: Paintings and Drawings of Venice, Paikowsky has shaped our understanding Morrice’s relationship with the city.
In June, we were delighted to welcome her for a curatorial talk offering an insider’s look at the making of Morrice in Venice and the discoveries she made along the way. Whether you’re new to Morrice or already a fan, Sandra’s insights will deepen your appreciation for his work and for Venice itself.
Morrice in Venice is an invitation to see one of the world’s most celebrated cities through a Canadian lens. We hope you’ll visit the McMichael to see it in person before it closes November 23. Until then, settle in and enjoy Sandra Paikowsky’s engaging talk.
Morrice In Venice
Extended by popular demand
to NOV 23, 2025
The McMichael proudly presents Morrice in Venice, an exhibition celebrating James Wilson Morrice’s evocative depictions of one of Europe’s most enchanting cities.
James Wilson Morrice:
Paintings and Drawings of Venice
related articles
David Hartman Captures Sandra Brewster’s Creative Process in New Short Film
November 6, 2025Back in 2021, the McMichael teamed up with the Koerner Foundation and the acclaimed Canadian filmmaker David Hartman to create a series of short documentaries that pull back the curtain on the lives and practices of some of Canada’s most celebrated contemporary artists represented in the McMichael’s collection. Each film offers an intimate glimpse into their studios and landscapes, inviting us to listen as they share stories of creativity, process, and the inspirations that shape their work.
David Hartman Documents Iris Häussler’s Artistic Process in New Short Film
December 27, 2025As part of our ongoing film series spotlighting contemporary Canadian artists, David Hartman followed Iris Häussler in her studio as she developed Divided Heavens, and later on the streets of downtown Toronto, where she volunteers with FLAP Canada.
David Hartman Profiles Rajni Perera’s Practice in New Short Film
March 4, 2026In this new short film directed by David Hartman, we spend time with the Toronto-based artist Rajni Perera in her studio, tracing the ideas and influences that shape her practice.