User:Hismarkness/Ken Kirkby

Ken Kirkby Born September 1, 1940. As a child in Europe, Ken Kirkby chose painting as his life’s work, forsaking formal education for the passion of creation. Arriving in Canada in 1958, he quickly made his way to the north. Kirkby spent five years living among Inuit, traveling with Canada’s native people, observing their culture and exploring the northern environment.

Returning from the north, Kirkby settled in British Columbia. His paintings of indigenous people, wildlife and stylized landscapes have found an audience with people across Canada and internationally. In the Early eighties, he brought his message to Toronto, to reach a larger audience with images of the north. Known to have painted Isumataq; the largest oils on canvas painting known. Isumataq is an astounding 12′ high and 153′ long, and was unveiled in the Canadian Parliament Buildings in Ottawa on Friday April 3rd, 1992.

Ken Kirkby received the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada in 1992 in recognition of his significant contribution to compatriots, community and to Canada.

His paintings are found in prestigious collections worldwide; the speaker of the House of Commons, The Royal Family, the government of Portugal, various diplomats and dignitaries have recognized his contribution to the art world, and to Canada.

Living and painting in Bowser, B.C. a small community on Vancouver Island, Ken Kirkby continues to paint the environment around him, and lends himself to numerous non-profit and charitable organizations. ...