Golden strokes for artists association

BY HOLLIE WATSON



One of the West Island’s most enduring cultural institutions marks a milestone this month as the Lakeshore Artists Association celebrates its 50th anniversary.

A half-century has passed since a handful of aspiring young painters had a collective vision of creating their own artists’ guild.

John Collins of Dorval recalled its

genesis.

“Back in the ‘50s, we found there were few opportunities to show our work. So a group of about 11 artists got together, thinking they could get exhibitions easier as a group than singly, and founded the LAA. And one day, while I was sketching down on the Lakeshore, a couple of them happened to come by, and asked if I’d like to join,� said Collins, adding, “I’m the only one from the original membership.�

The accomplished watercolour artist, who will be donating a winter scene for a draw at the Nov. 17-19 exposition, made his name as an editorial cartoonist for over 40 years. Admirers and subjects included John Diefenbaker, who owned one of his pieces and whom he also met.

The weekend show at Fritz Farm is in part a fundraiser for NOVA (formerly the VON), which the association has supported via its spring show at the Baie d’Urfé locale for over 25 years.

The other main cause to which artists have lent their talents is the West Island Association for the Intellectually Handicapped. “They receive a portion of the proceeds of our outdoor show at Stewart Hall, which we’ve held for 47 years. Over time the two exhibits have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars,� said show co-organizer Mary Dorland of Pointe Claire.

Nearly all 55 members will submit a few pieces for the anniversary show in a wide range of media and styles, “and about 20 per cent will be a retrospective,� she said.

A highlight will be a special room paying homage to past members, including P. Roy Wilson, co-founder Hank Simpkins, and other notables.

“We’re getting various works on loan from private collections, including a sculpture being loaned to us by the daughter of Eileen Ouellette,� Dorland said.

Ouellette died in February.

While the LAA has been home to countless professionals who have carved out successful careers in the art world, no mention of the group would be complete without the name Ernst Heidersdorf. His ethereal interpretations of Canadian flora earned him international renown; in 1966 he was commissioned to paint the Centennial Rose, which was presented to Queen Elizabeth at Buckingham Palace.

“For the Stewart Hall show, people used to come from all over and line up at the crack of dawn for a chance to buy one of Ernst’s paintings,� Collins said.

“My father was originally a commercial artist and designer of textiles and wallpaper,� said Renate Heidersdorf, herself an accomplished watercolour artist and longtime member.

“But through his association with the LAA, the following he had, and the exposure he got, he was able to give that up completely and paint what he loved,� she said, adding the group helped to make him what he was.

Heidersdorf has chosen his ‘Begonia’, a vibrant work rendered in tempera casein, for this show’s special display. “Back when the association started there was a stigma that art was just oil paintings. I think that their shows set a new trend,� she said.

The vernissage for the LAA’s 50th- anniversary show and sale will be held Nov. 17 from 7 to 9:30 p.m., continuing Nov. 18 and 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 20477 Lakeshore Rd. Music and refreshments will add to the festive atmosphere.

The LAA, which currently has a waiting list, meets monthly; there are criteria new members must meet. For more information, call 514-695-1986.