Works
  • Maurice Cullen, Misty Bridge
    Misty BridgeCAD 29,000.00
    Maurice Cullen, Misty Bridge
    CAD 29,000.00
  • Maurice Cullen, Harbour Scene
    Harbour SceneCAD 12,500.00
    Maurice Cullen, Harbour Scene
    CAD 12,500.00
  • Maurice Cullen, Riverside Farm, 1896
    Riverside Farm, 1896CAD 22,500.00
    Maurice Cullen, Riverside Farm, 1896
    CAD 22,500.00
  • North Cache River, Lake Tremblant by Maurice Cullen
    North Cache River, Lake Tremblant, 1929CAD 60,000.00
    Maurice Cullen, North Cache River, Lake Tremblant, 1929
    CAD 60,000.00
Biography

“One justification for life is the love of beauty.”

Maurice Cullen

Maurice Galbraith Cullen: Father of Canadian Impressionism

Early Life and Education
Maurice Galbraith Cullen (born June 6, 1866, St. John's, Newfoundland – died March 28, 1934, Chambly, Québec) was a seminal figure in Canadian art, renowned for his role in establishing Canadian Impressionism. Raised in Montreal, Quebec, Cullen began his artistic training in sculpture under the guidance of Louis-Philippe Hébert at the Conseil des Arts et Manufactures and later at the Monument National.

 Maurice Cullen; Riverside Farm

Maurice Cullen; Riverside Farm, 1896

 

Parisian Studies and Artistic Shift
In 1889, Cullen traveled to Paris to continue his studies. He enrolled at the École des Beaux-Arts, studying under Jean-Léon Gérôme and at the Académie Julian. Initially intent on sculpture, Cullen was inspired by French Impressionists, especially Claude Monet, leading him to shift his focus to painting. By 1895, he had become the first Canadian elected as an associate of the Société Nationale des Beaux-Arts, marking his transition and dedication to Impressionism.

 

Maurice Cullen; Misty Bridge

 Maurice Cullen; Misty Bridge

 

Canadian Career and Contributions
Returning to Montreal in 1895, Cullen shifted his artistic lens to the Canadian landscape, particularly Quebec’s winter scenes and urban vistas. His works, such as ice harvest scenes with horse-drawn sleighs and luminous depictions of the Laurentians, are celebrated for their depiction of northern light and crisp atmosphere. He was a key figure in the progressive Canadian Art Club and his work "Été" was purchased by the French Government, now housed at the Musée de Pithiviers.


Maurice Cullen; North Cache River, Lake Tremblant

Maurice Cullen; North Cache River, Lake Tremblant

 

World War I and Legacy
During World War I, Cullen served as a war artist with Canadian forces, achieving the rank of Captain. This period highlighted his versatility in capturing both the tranquility of Canadian landscapes and the stark realities of war. Cullen's influence extended through his stepson, Robert Wakeham Pilot, and continued to inspire future generations, including the Group of Seven.

 

Maurice Cullen; Light Effects, Beaupre

 Maurice Cullen; Light Effects, Beaupre

 

Retrospectives and Honors
Maurice Cullen was honored with multiple retrospectives, notably by the Quebec government in 1930 and posthumously by the Watson Art Galleries in 1934. His legacy is preserved in major collections like the National Gallery of Canada and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.

 

Conclusion
Maurice Cullen's mastery in blending French Impressionist techniques with the unique Canadian landscape secured his status as a cornerstone of Canadian cultural heritage and a master of landscape painting. His contributions are regularly celebrated in exhibitions, reflecting his enduring impact on Canadian art.