Whether in Canada, or virtually anywhere else in the world during the 1950's it was a considerable challenge for a woman to be taken seriously as an artist.

Alexandra Luke (1901-1967) had to overcome not only the (art) world's inherent sexism but a bias and resentment regarding her background of privilege. 

Her entire life was dedicated to the creation, scholarship and exhibition of art.

A student at the Banff Centre and the Hans Hoffman School of Art in New York, Luke returned to Toronto with an inspiration to promote Abstract Expressionism in Toronto and beyond. 

During the fifties Luke either directly or jointly organized several group exhibitions of abstract art.

Her own work was widely exhibited and received decent reviews. However unlike Jack Bush or Harold Town, she struggled to sell her creations. 

Gradually by the beginning of the 1960's she was invited to join various Artist societies as her reputation solidified. This was timely as the dissolution of Painters Eleven in 1960.

This is a curious example of Luke's work. While it possesses the vitality and strong palette that she is known for, there seems to be a possible and very rare figurative element in the work: an eagle and its wing. However, this is open to interpretation. 

An ideal piece for a collector interested in Painters Eleven.

Additional images available on request. 

Questions about this piece?  or call 1.416.704.1720

Signed by the artist.

Watercolor, acrylic and pencil on paper

Canada, circa 1960

28"H 22"W (work)

Very good condition