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When I use my paintbrush
I understand that I am not the only one doing the painting
even though my name goes on the finished work.
Roy Thomas
“It is very fitting that the Thunder Bay Art Gallery commit to the important work of recognizing and documenting the work of this important Northwestern Ontario and Canadian artist. Roy Thomas was a resident of Thunder Bay from 1989 until his death in 2004. His wife Louise, and their twin boys, Randy and Roy still make Thunder Bay home. Over the years the Gallery has been the site of a number of solo and group exhibitions of Roy’s work and some important pieces by Roy are part of the Gallery’s permanent collection. The relationship between Roy and the Gallery grew with each supporting and advising each other. So close were the ties with the Roy Thomas family that his widow Louise requested that his funeral ceremony be held at the Gallery in late 2004. The Gallery was honored to comply.
This project constitutes the first critical examination of Roy Thomas’ entire oeuvre including his public commissions. It is being undertaken by the Gallery to illustrate the unique character of his contribution to the so called ‘Woodland School of Art’, the nature of his achievements, his contribution as a mentor to other artists and young people, and the distinctions that are his and his alone. His place in the progress of contemporary Ahnisnabae expression will be confirmed”.
Sharon Godwin, Director
June 7 – September 9, 2012
Thunder Bay Art Gallery
Opening Reception – Thursday, June 7 at 70 pm
Walking Tour with Guest Curator Elizabeth McLuhan – Saturday, June 9, 1:00 pm