OC RCA
1928 - 2023
Canadian
On the Hero Myth
oil on canvas board on wood
signed and dated 1955 and on verso signed, titled and dated
17 1/2 x 14 1/4 in, 44.5 x 36.2 cm
Estimate: $12,000 - $16,000 CAD
Preview at: Heffel Montreal
PROVENANCE
Private Collection, Montreal
LITERATURE
Dennis Reid, Philip Monk and Louis Dompierre, The Michael Snow Project, Art Gallery of Ontario and The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery, 1994, reproduced page 262
EXHIBITED
Art Gallery of Ontario and The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery, Toronto, The Michael Snow Project, March 11 - June 5, 1994, catalogue #156
Standing fiercely, the imposing figure in Michael Snow’s On the Hero Myth is a strikingly modern take on the classical subject of the hero. Executed in 1955, this work shows a mythical figure with a spectacularly muscular body, victoriously clenching his weaponry. Snow layers his energetic painterly gestures using a rich palette of pinks, beiges, soft yellows and lavenders over a mottled background of maroons, blues, purples and reds. The hero commands the centre of the composition, part icon and part anatomical illustration. Lilac, cobalt, purple and red lines run across his torso, arms and face, resembling the circulatory system. Various areas of the work are identified by yellow and white arrows with traces of indistinct text inscriptions. Typically semi-divine, heroes are mythical characters who, facing adversity, achieve extraordinary feats by calling upon their strength, intelligence and bravery. Although powerful, this hero is also vulnerable, with his exposed gleaming red heart, reminding us of his mortal nature.
Estimate: $12,000 - $16,000 CAD
All prices are in Canadian Dollars
Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our
Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the
condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.