French Lessons, Canadian Themes : Emily Carr

Despite ridicule, a painter stuck with bold and experimental approaches.

Carr, Emily. “Indian Community House,” 1912. Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. Author photo of work in public domain.

I love the painting enough to promote it even with its flaws.

As with many works of art, the “Indian Community House” looks best seen in person, not in photos.

That way you can admire the wooden carving of the totem and roof adornment, the curve of the boat.

You can wonder about the story of the figures in the painting, including those gathered in this balcony of sorts.

Is there a relationship between the standing woman and child and the older woman seated on the stairs? If so, what is it?