Alan Collier Canadian, 1911-1990
painted Aug. 19, 1978
Further images
"Evening, Baffin Bay - Iceberg DCG," a watercolour on paper painted on August 19, 1978, is a compelling piece by Canadian artist Alan Collier (1911-1990), measuring 12 x 16 inches. Signed by the artist on the bottom left, this painting communicates the quiet grandeur of the Arctic through a series of harmonious, muted tones and deftly applied washes of color that bring to life the unique luminosity of polar light.
The painting is characterized by its layered, horizontal bands of color, ranging from deep blue at the bottom to soft, warm hues that mimic the twilight sky. This stratification evokes the stillness of the evening and the vastness of the bay. A central focus is the iceberg, rendered in cooler tones, contrasting with the surrounding waters, highlighting its stark and majestic beauty. The iceberg’s sharp angles and the water’s subtle ripple effect combine to create a sense of dynamic stillness, emblematic of nature's powerful tranquility.
With an enchanting simplicity, Collier captures the profound silence and isolation of the Arctic landscape. The provenance of the work includes an inventory number, suggesting it was part of a series or collection, and it has passed through the Roberts Gallery in Toronto, eventually being sold to the Arts and Letters Club of Toronto. This painting stands as a testament to Collier's ability to distill the essence of Canada's northern landscapes into his delicate and reflective watercolour compositions.