Mad about Maud
A special weekend is planned this month that will help people learn more about Maud Lewis, the Nova Scotian artist whose story has captured hearts around the world.
An expert on Maud Lewis art is slated to speak at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia’s western branch in Yarmouth Sunday, Sept. 17, as part of a weekend celebrating Lewis.
Alan Deacon will give a talk titled Appreciating the Art of Maud Lewis. It’s scheduled for 2 p.m.
Deacon is said to have the largest private Maud Lewis collection in Canada, spanning three decades of her work, and he authenticates her paintings for major Canadian art auction houses.
While he’s at the Yarmouth gallery for his presentation, the AGNS says Deacon would be willing to see any Maud Lewis paintings people want to bring in and offer a verbal authentication and appraisal of Maud Lewis items.
In a media release from the AGNS, Deacon likens authenticating Lewis pieces to detective work.
“Authentic Mauds always have certain nuances in the work,” he said. “I think that’s how I became an authority — by studying and looking at them closely.”
Deacon’s talk is part of what has been billed as an “all about Maud” weekend.
The weekend includes the play Maud, written and directed by Hal Theriault, which will be presented at Th’YARC Friday, Sept. 15. To reserve tickets, call the arts centre at 902-742-8150.
On Saturday, Sept. 16, from 1 to 4 p.m., the AGNS will host a Maud Lewis painting party with Yarmouth artist Tootsie Emin. The cost for this activity is $30 and there is a limited number of spaces. Anyone interested is asked to call the gallery (902-7492248) to register. This is for ages 16 and up. Art supplies and canvas are included.
There has been great interest in Maud Lewis this year, particularly given the popularity of “Maudie,” the movie about the renowned folk artist from southwestern Nova Scotia.
In late May at the AGNS in Yarmouth, an exhibition opened called Maud Lewis: From the Permanent Collection.
The exhibition has been very well received, said Angela Collier, co-ordinator of the AGNS western branch.
“authentic Mauds always have certain nuances in the work,” he said. “i think that’s how i became an authority — by studying and looking at them closely.”
Alan Deacon